A child with a fever may continue to have an appetite, especially when the illness that's causing the rise in temperature is not serious. Deciding what to feed a feverish child will depend largely on his hunger level. Nutritious liquids are typically recommended as they help avoid dehydration.
Considerations
A regular diet is fine for a child with a fever if her appetite is normal. Bland foods like rice, saltine crackers, toast, noodles, bananas, boiled potatoes, peeled apples, applesauce and unsweetened cereals may settle best when fever is accompanied with diarrhea and vomiting. Don't insist that your child eat more than he wants if he seems to have lost interest in food. The one exception would be if your child isn't getting enough fluids, according to FamilyDoctor.org. Fluids help prevent dehydration that may be more likely to occur since fever will cause a child to lose fluids more quickly than normal. Fluids also help the body cool itself.
Recommendations
Popsicles, clear soups like bouillon or consommé, flavored gelatin and plain water are good liquid choices for a child with fever. Soft drinks, tea and other caffeinated beverages should be avoided since they can cause increased urination. If fever is accompanied with diarrhea and vomiting ask your health care provider about whether your child might benefit from an electrolyte or rehydration solution designed especially for children. Grocery stores and drugstores typically sell the solution. Sports drinks should be off limits since the added sugars can worsen diarrhea.
Beyond Nutrition
Plenty of rest and relaxation is advised for kids with fever. Keeping the thermostat set at 70 to 74 degrees Fahrenheit can help ensure your child remains comfortable. Resist the urge to overdress your child since wearing too much can lock-in body heat and increase your child's fever, notes FamilyDoctor.org. Light cotton pajamas can keep your child cool.
Outlook
Don't be too concerned if your child doesn't have much of an appetite. Disinterest in food is common with infections that cause fever. Check with your doctor if you have any concerns about treating your child's fever or appetite. He may recommend an over-the-counter medication, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
References
- Mayo Clinic; Fever: First Aid; August 2011
- KidsHealth.org: Fever and Taking Your Childs Temperature
- FamilyDoctor.org; Fever in Infants and Children; September 2010
- Drugs.com: Clear Liquid Diet
- FamilyDoctor.org; Vomiting and Diarrhea in Children; November 2010
- UW Health; When Your Child Has Vomiting and/or Diarrhea; March 2010
