What should you eat and avoid when you have Chickenpox?

emma

My throat is full of sores, and eating is painful. What are some soft, soothing, and nutritious foods that can help during recovery? Conversely, are there any foods, like spicy or acidic items, that can worsen the blisters or the itching and should be avoided?

isabella

When your throat is full of chickenpox sores, the goal is to soothe the pain while maintaining nutrition and hydration. Focus on cool, soft, and smooth foods that are easy to swallow. Excellent choices include plain yogurt, pudding, gelatin (Jell-O), lukewarm oatmeal, well-cooked and mashed vegetables, smoothies (without citrus), and protein shakes. Chilled foods are particularly helpful, so ice pops, ice cream, and milkshakes can provide relief and calories. For something more savory, try broths, pureed soups, mashed potatoes (without sharp spices), or soft scrambled eggs.

It is equally important to know what to avoid. Steer clear of anything that can irritate the delicate sores. This includes:

Acidic foods: Orange juice, lemonade, tomatoes, and salsa.

Salty foods: Chips, pretzels, and salty broths.

Spicy foods: Hot sauce, curry, or peppers.

Crunchy or rough foods: Toast, crackers, and raw vegetables.

Sticking to this gentle diet will help you stay nourished while your body heals, making the recovery process much more comfortable.

olivia

When chickenpox causes mouth or throat sores, choose soft, cool, and mild foods that are easy to swallow and won’t irritate blisters. Good options include mashed potatoes, oatmeal, yogurt, smoothies, soups, custards, and boiled rice. Cold foods like ice cream or chilled fruit puree can also soothe pain and inflammation. Avoid spicy, salty, or acidic foods such as citrus fruits, tomato-based dishes, pickles, and chips, as these can sting the sores and worsen discomfort. Encourage your child to drink plenty of cool water or coconut water to stay hydrated. Keeping meals gentle and soothing helps the throat heal faster and reduces irritation during recovery.