World Pneumonia Day: What Should a Child Eat During Recovery from Pneumonia? Expert Advice You Should Know

Pneumonia is a serious infection that affects the lungs and causes difficulty in breathing. In its early stages, its symptoms can look similar to the common cold or flu, which often leads to delays in diagnosis. If not treated on time, pneumonia can become life-threatening — especially in young children.

Every year, World Pneumonia Day is observed on November 12 to raise awareness about this disease and share information on its prevention and care. Recovery from pneumonia takes time, and during this period, a child’s diet plays a crucial role in regaining strength and boosting immunity.

Let’s understand what experts recommend for children recovering from pneumonia.

What Experts Say

According to Dr. Naveen Dangaich, Neonatologist at Cocoon Hospital, children often become weak after recovering from pneumonia because their bodies lose significant energy and nutrients during the illness.
He emphasizes that a nutritious and balanced diet is essential to help strengthen the lungs, restore immunity, and promote faster healing.

During recovery, children should be given light, easily digestible meals that are rich in vitamins and minerals. Parents should also feed small portions at frequent intervals, as the child’s body needs energy in small doses rather than large meals.

Diet Plan During Recovery

Morning:
Start the day with lukewarm milk mixed with a pinch of turmeric or a little honey (only for children above one year of age; for younger ones, consult your doctor).
This helps reduce inflammation and soothes the lungs.

You can also offer:

• Semolina (suji) porridge

• Oatmeal

• Moong dal soup

• Soft vegetable khichdi

Lunch:
Keep lunch light and balanced. Ideal options include:

• Lentil rice or vegetable khichdi

• Lightly cooked green vegetables such as spinach, bottle gourd, or tinda

• Curd (yogurt) for gut health
  If the child is older, soft rotis with ghee and vegetables can also be included for added energy.

Evening Snack:
Offer fresh fruits like apple, papaya, banana, or orange, which are rich in vitamin C and help strengthen the immune system.
Avoid packaged juices and soft drinks — fresh fruit juice or smoothies are much better choices.

Dinner:
Keep it simple and comforting with light soups or porridge. Adding a little ginger, garlic, or turmeric to the soup not only enhances flavor but also helps prevent reinfection.
Before bedtime, give the child lukewarm water to keep the throat clear and prevent mucus buildup.

Important Things to Keep in Mind

• Avoid cold foods, junk food, carbonated drinks, and processed snacks like chips and biscuits — they can slow down the healing process.

• Ensure the child gets adequate rest, proper sleep, and maintains good hygiene.

• If weakness persists or symptoms return, consult your doctor immediately.

Dr. Dangaich reminds parents that “a combination of nutritious food, rest, and care is key to a child’s recovery from pneumonia.”