What should you eat when you have measles?

November 15, 2025 •

3 min read

The World Health Organization recommends vitamin A supplements for all children diagnosed with measles, as deficiency is a known risk factor for severe illness. Knowing what should you eat when you have measles is crucial for supporting the body's immune system and managing symptoms effectively.

Quick Summary

A supportive diet for measles should focus on adequate fluid intake to prevent dehydration, and easily digestible foods rich in key vitamins and minerals. Consuming plenty of vitamin A, vitamin C, and zinc can bolster the immune system and promote a faster recovery.

Key Points

Hydration is critical: Measles, especially with fever or diarrhea, can cause dehydration. Drink plenty of water, broth, or oral rehydration solutions.
Start with liquids: During the acute stage, focus on easy-to-swallow fluids like juices, coconut water, and soups to ensure energy and nutrient intake.
Eat soft, bland foods: When appetite returns, introduce soft, easily digestible foods like porridges, khichdi, and mashed vegetables.
Boost vitamins A and C: Increase intake of foods rich in vitamins A and C, such as carrots, spinach, oranges, and strawberries, to support immune function and repair tissue.
Incorporate zinc: Add zinc-rich foods like nuts, legumes, and lean meats to aid the body's immune response and recovery.
Avoid irritants: Stay away from processed, greasy, oily, and spicy foods, as well as sugary drinks and caffeine, which can hinder recovery.
Gradual transition: As you recover, slowly transition from a liquid to a semi-solid, and then a regular diet, listening to your body's signals.

Why Diet Matters When You Have Measles

When your body is fighting off a viral infection like measles, it requires extra energy and nutrients. High fevers, loss of appetite, and discomfort can lead to dehydration and nutritional deficiencies, which can slow down recovery and even lead to complications. A well-chosen diet can provide the necessary fuel, support immune function, and help soothe symptoms like a sore throat. The primary goals are to stay hydrated, consume immune-boosting nutrients, and eat foods that are gentle on your digestive system.

The Best Foods to Eat During a Measles Infection

Prioritize Hydration

Dehydration is a common and serious risk with measles, especially if accompanied by fever, diarrhea, or vomiting. Proper fluid intake is the most important dietary consideration during your illness. Water is the best choice, but other fluids can provide additional benefits and electrolytes.

Oral rehydration solutions (ORS): Essential for replacing lost fluids and electrolytes, especially with diarrhea.
Coconut water: A natural source of electrolytes that helps maintain balance.
Buttermilk and Kefir: Probiotic-rich drinks that can support gut health.
Herbal teas: Warm teas like ginger-mint or turmeric milk can be soothing for a sore throat.
Broth and soups: Chicken broth or vegetable soups provide hydration along with some energy and nutrients.

Choose Easily Digestible Foods

Loss of appetite is common, so focusing on small, frequent meals of soft, bland foods can help ensure you get enough energy without overwhelming your digestive system.

Porridge and khichdi: Soft, warm, and comforting grain-based meals that are easy to digest.
Mashed potatoes and rice: Simple carbohydrates that provide energy without much effort.
Soft fruits: Bananas, papayas, and fruit purees are gentle on the stomach and provide vitamins.
Yogurt and custards: Good sources of protein and probiotics that are easy to consume.
Well-cooked vegetables: Mashed or pureed carrots, pumpkin, and sweet potatoes are packed with nutrients, especially vitamin A.

Boost Immunity with Key Vitamins

Certain vitamins and minerals are critical for a strong immune response, and measles can deplete them.

Vitamin A: Crucial for the integrity of skin and mucosal barriers, which are damaged by the virus. Sources include liver, eggs, milk, and dark green or orange vegetables.
Vitamin C: A powerful antioxidant that supports the immune system. Find it in citrus fruits, strawberries, and bell peppers.
Zinc: An essential mineral for immune function and wound healing. Good sources are lean meats, nuts, seeds, and legumes.

Foods to Avoid During Measles

Just as important as knowing what to eat is knowing what to avoid, as some foods can hinder your recovery.

Processed and junk foods: These are typically high in unhealthy fats, sugar, and sodium, which can increase inflammation and stress the body.
Oily and fried foods: Fried snacks, heavy meats, and other greasy items are hard to digest and can worsen stomach issues.
Carbonated and caffeinated drinks: Sugary sodas and caffeinated beverages can contribute to dehydration and offer little nutritional value.
Spicy and hot foods: These can irritate a sore throat and sensitive digestive system.
Acidic fruits (in early stages): While Vitamin C is good, highly acidic fruit juices can irritate a sore throat and mouth sores often associated with measles.

Comparison: Early Stage vs. Recovery Diet


Feature	Early Stage (Acute Illness)	Recovery Phase
Focus	Hydration and soothing foods.	Replenishing nutrients and boosting energy.
Food Texture	Mostly liquids and soft, pureed foods.	Gradually reintroduce semi-solid and then solid foods.
Examples	Broth, coconut water, fruit juices, porridges, mashed vegetables.	Khichdi, curd rice, soft chapatis with dal, scrambled eggs, lean chicken curry.
Nutrients	Emphasis on fluids and electrolytes, early dose of Vitamin A (if recommended by doctor).	Higher intake of protein, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and Zinc.
Digestion	Simple, easy-to-digest foods.	Transition to more complex meals as tolerance improves.

Conclusion

Providing your body with the right nutrition and hydration is an essential part of managing a measles infection and supporting a swift recovery. Focus on a diet rich in fluids, easy-to-digest foods, and immune-supporting nutrients like Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and Zinc, while strictly avoiding processed, greasy, and sugary items. Remember to always consult with a healthcare professional regarding any specific dietary concerns or supplementation, especially concerning children or individuals with pre-existing conditions. By following these nutritional guidelines, you can help your body effectively fight the virus and minimize the risk of complications.

For more information on measles treatment and management, visit the Mayo Clinic's guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Staying hydrated is vital because the high fever and potential diarrhea associated with measles can lead to significant fluid loss, increasing the risk of dehydration. Water, broths, and rehydration solutions help replenish fluids and electrolytes.

If you have a sore throat, focus on soothing, non-acidic, and non-spicy foods. Good options include vegetable or chicken broth, yogurt, fruit purees, and warm herbal teas like ginger or turmeric milk.

The World Health Organization recommends vitamin A supplements for children with measles, especially in areas with potential deficiency. For adults, consuming vitamin A-rich foods is beneficial. Always consult a healthcare provider before taking any supplements.

Yes, fruit juices can provide hydration and vitamin C. However, opt for natural, sugar-free fruit juices and avoid highly acidic options if your throat is sensitive. Diluting with water can also be helpful.

During the initial phase, easily digestible foods are best due to potential loss of appetite and digestive upset. These include bland options like porridges, khichdi, mashed rice, and boiled potatoes.

You can gradually transition back to your regular diet as your appetite and energy levels return. Start with semi-solid foods and move towards your normal meals, ensuring you continue to prioritize nutritious options to aid final recovery.

It is best to avoid processed sugars, sweets, and carbonated drinks, which offer little nutritional value and can weaken the immune system. However, natural sugars from fruits and fruit juices can provide a quick energy boost.