Eating Well During Malaria Recovery
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Stay hydrated
Fever and sweating can increase fluid loss.
Drink fluids regularly, such as:
- Clean drinking water
- Oral rehydration solution when appropriate
- Soups and broths
- Other suitable non-alcoholic fluids
If vomiting is present, take small amounts frequently rather than drinking a large amount at once.
Eat small, regular meals
You may have a reduced appetite during malaria.
If large meals are difficult, try smaller meals more frequently.
Choose foods that are easy to tolerate, such as:
- Porridge
- Rice
- Potatoes
- Bananas
- Vegetables
- Beans
- Eggs
- Fish or other suitable protein sources
Include protein
Adequate protein supports recovery and helps maintain muscle.
Good options include:
- Eggs
- Beans
- Lentils
- Peas
- Fish
- Chicken
- Milk and other suitable dairy products
Choose foods that you can tolerate and that fit your usual diet.
Include fruits and vegetables
Fruits and vegetables provide vitamins, minerals and fibre.
Choose a variety of locally available options and include them as your appetite improves.
Do not rely on supplements
A varied diet is generally preferable to taking multiple supplements.
If you have a known nutritional deficiency or your clinician recommends a supplement, follow that advice.
Continue your malaria treatment
Food supports recovery, but it does not treat malaria.
Take your prescribed antimalarial medicines exactly as instructed and complete the treatment unless your healthcare provider tells you otherwise.
Seek care if you are getting worse
Poor appetite can occur during illness, but seek medical attention if you cannot keep fluids or medicines down, become severely weak, confused, excessively sleepy or develop difficulty breathing.
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