Dealing with a child battling strep throat can be tough. Their little throats are sore, swallowing is a challenge, and they just want to feel better. One of the best things you can do as a parent is to provide them with soothing foods that are easy to swallow and gentle on their throat. But what exactly should you be feeding your little one?
Let’s dive into some nourishing and delicious options that can help ease their discomfort and make mealtime a little brighter.
## Soothing Soups and Broths
When your child has strep throat, soups and broths are your best friend. They’re warm, comforting, and packed with nutrients that can help your little one feel better. Plus, the liquid consistency makes them super easy to swallow, which is a major plus when your child is dealing with throat pain.
Think about classic chicken noodle soup. It’s not just an old wives’ tale—the warm broth can actually help to thin out mucus and soothe inflammation. Plus, the noodles provide some much-needed carbohydrates for energy.
But don’t feel limited to chicken noodle soup! You can get creative with other broths like vegetable broth, bone broth, or even tomato soup (just make sure it’s not too acidic).
## Soft and Bland Foods
Remember the BRAT diet? It stands for bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast, and it’s a great guideline for what to feed a child with strep throat. These foods are bland, which means they won’t irritate your child’s throat.
Mashed potatoes are another winner. They’re soft, easy to swallow, and you can even mix in some broth or milk to make them extra smooth. Scrambled eggs, well-cooked pasta, and soft-cooked vegetables are also great options.
The key here is to avoid anything spicy, acidic, or crunchy, as these can further irritate the throat.
## Cool and Soothing Treats
Let’s be real, sometimes your little one just wants something cold and refreshing. Popsicles are a lifesaver when it comes to strep throat. Not only are they cooling and soothing on a sore throat, but they can also help to keep your child hydrated.
Look for popsicles made with real fruit juice for an extra dose of vitamins. You can also get creative and make your own popsicles at home using blended fruits, yogurt, and honey.
Just be sure to avoid popsicles with chunks of fruit or candy, as these can be difficult to swallow.
## Staying Hydrated is Key
While it’s important to provide your child with nourishing foods, staying hydrated is absolutely crucial when they have strep throat. Encourage them to sip on fluids throughout the day, even if they don’t feel very thirsty.
Water is always the best choice, but you can also offer other hydrating fluids like diluted juice, electrolyte drinks, or herbal teas.
Avoid giving your child sugary drinks like soda or juice, as these can actually worsen dehydration.
## When to See a Doctor
While providing supportive foods and fluids can go a long way in helping your child feel better, it’s important to remember that strep throat is a bacterial infection that requires antibiotics for treatment.
If you suspect your child has strep throat, it’s crucial to take them to the doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.
