Is Quail Egg Good For Dengue Patients? Here’s What Experts Say

Dengue fever is a concerning viral disease, especially in tropical regions. It can cause high fever severe joint pain nausea, vomiting, and skin rashes. In some cases, it may progress to the life-threatening dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome.

During dengue fever patients experience a sharp drop in platelet counts. This leads to bleeding disorders and difficulty in blood clotting. Therefore dengue patients need to be very careful about their diet and nutrition. They need foods that can help increase platelet count and prevent complications. This is where quail eggs come into the picture.

Quail eggs have recently gained popularity for their stellar nutritional profile. They are rich sources of proteins, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. According to experts, quail eggs can help dengue patients recover faster. Here’s an in-depth look at why quail eggs are good for dengue.

Understanding Dengue Fever

Dengue fever is caused by four closely related viruses – DENV 1 DENV 2 DENV 3, and DENV 4. It spreads through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito. These mosquitoes are usually active during the day and breed in clean, stagnant water.

After an incubation period of 4-7 days, the symptoms start with a sudden high fever, often over 104°F. Other common symptoms are an intense headache, severe eye pain, joint and muscle pain, nausea, vomiting, and skin rash. Low white blood cell and platelet counts are also seen.

Some patients progress to dengue hemorrhagic fever. It causes leakage of blood plasma from blood vessels and bleeding manifestations like nosebleeds and gum bleeds. Dengue shock syndrome involves dangerously low blood pressure. These complications can be fatal if not treated on time.

Recovery from dengue takes 1-2 weeks. During this time, it’s essential to consume a vitamin and mineral-rich diet along with plenty of fluids. Doctors often recommend papaya leaf juice and coconut water to dengue patients. Now quail eggs are also being promoted as an add-on to the dengue diet.

Why Are Quail Eggs Beneficial?

Quail eggs have long been used in folk medicine traditions in parts of Asia and Europe. Modern research also confirms that these tiny speckled eggs are packed with essential nutrients. Here are some key ways in which they can help dengue patients:

Rich source of protein

Quail eggs contain almost three times more protein compared to chicken eggs – 13g vs 5g per 100g. Proteins get broken down into amino acids that repair injured tissues and make antibodies. The high protein content helps dengue patients rebuild strength.

Excellent source of iron

Deficiency of iron is one of the reasons for low platelet counts in dengue. Quail eggs are rich in iron, containing 3.6mg per 100g. The iron helps in producing hemoglobin and new platelets.

High in Vitamin B12

Quail eggs are an exceptionally good source of vitamin B12, with over 16mcg in just 100g. Vitamin B12 plays a key role in the production and function of red blood cells. It improves symptoms like fatigue and shortness of breath.

Contains folate

Folate or vitamin B9 helps in the formation of red blood cells and platelets. Quail eggs supply almost three times more folate than chicken eggs – 106mcg vs 37mcg per 100g.

Rich in amino acids

Quail eggs provide all 9 essential amino acids needed by the human body along with other important ones like lysine, cysteine, tryptophan, etc. Amino acids promote tissue regeneration.

Boosts immunity

Quail eggs provide good amounts of immunity-boosting vitamins A, C, E, K, B2, B6 and minerals like zinc, manganese, and selenium. They help fight infections and speed up healing.

Easy to digest

Quail eggs contain alkaline minerals like magnesium, potassium, and sodium. This makes them easier to digest compared to chicken eggs. Weak dengue patients can digest them without straining the system.

Helps detoxification

Quail eggs contain ovomucoid protein that acts as a natural anti-allergen. It reduces inflammation and congestion. The amino acid glutathione is also found in quail eggs. It eliminates toxins and enhances liver health.

Incorporating Quail Eggs Into the Dengue Diet

• Start the day with a boiled or scrambled quail egg to provide high-quality protein.
• Make a smoothie with quail eggs, banana, yogurt, honey and milk. It offers a meal in a glass.
• Boil 2-3 quail eggs, mash them and add to congee or rice porridge along with vegetables.
• Add chopped quail eggs to vegetable soups and broths.
• Make egg drop soup with quail eggs, vegetables and chicken broth.
• For vegetarians, combine chopped quail eggs with tofu, mushrooms, veggies and noodles.
• Add sliced boiled quail eggs to a bowl of mixed salad greens.
• Use mashed quail eggs instead of a mayo-like spread in sandwiches.
• Mix boiled quail eggs with mashed potatoes or macaroni salad.

Some Precautions With Quail Eggs

• Avoid eating raw or undercooked quail eggs as they may contain bacteria. Cook them thoroughly before eating.
• Moderate the number of quail eggs based on your platelet count. Start with 1-2 eggs per day.
• If you have an allergy to chicken eggs or bird proteins, avoid quail eggs too.
• Don’t rely on quail eggs alone. Have them as a part of a balanced dengue diet.
• Take your doctor’s advice on introducing quail eggs if you have other health conditions.
• Look for fresh, organic quail eggs that are salmonella and antibiotic-free.

To conclude, quail eggs are a nutritious addition to a dengue patient’s diet. They provide much-needed protein, iron, vitamins and minerals that aid recovery. However, moderation is key. Have no more than 2-3 quail eggs per day and be alert to any allergic reactions. As with any food, take your doctor’s guidance before including quail eggs in your dengue diet.