World Encephalitis Day – 22nd February 2026

-

 

Understanding Brain Inflammation & The Role of Nutrition in Prevention and Recovery

By Saranya – Dietician, Nutrition Educator, Diabetes Educator

    

Awareness


    Every year on 22nd February, the world observes World Encephalitis Day to raise awareness about encephalitis — a serious but often misunderstood condition affecting the brain.

    As a dietician with over 20 years of experience in preventive nutrition and lifestyle management, I believe awareness, early recognition, immunity support, and proper nourishment can make a significant difference in outcomes.

    Let us understand this condition in simple terms.    


What is Encephalitis?

Encephalitis means inflammation of the brain. It usually occurs due to:

lViral infections (most common)

lBacterial infections

lAutoimmune reactions

lPost-infection complications

If not treated early, it can lead to:

lHigh fever

lSevere headache

lConfusion

lSeizures

lMemory problems

lLong-term neurological complications

In severe cases, it can become life-threatening.

What Causes Encephalitis?

Common viral causes include:

lJapanese Encephalitis virus

lHerpes Simplex Virus

lEnteroviruses

lMosquito-borne infections

In India, especially during monsoon and post-monsoon seasons, mosquito-related infections are a major concern.

 

Early Warning Signs You Should Never Ignore

✔ Sudden high fever
✔ Severe headache
✔ Vomiting
✔ Drowsiness
✔ Behavioral changes
✔ Seizures
✔ Stiff neck

Early medical care saves lives. Delay can cause permanent brain damage.

Awareness


Why Immunity Matters in Encephalitis Prevention

A strong immune system reduces the risk of severe infection and supports faster recovery.

As a nutrition educator, I always emphasize:

“Prevention begins in your plate.”

While vaccines and hygiene are primary prevention tools, nutritional status determines how well the body fights infections.

 

Nutrition Strategies to Support Brain & Immune Health

Immune-Boosting Nutrients

lVitamin C – Amla, guava, citrus fruits

lZinc – Pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, lentils

lVitamin A – Carrots, spinach, drumstick leaves

lProtein – Dal, sprouts, curd, paneer, eggs

 

Protein is especially important for tissue repair and recovery.

Brain-Supportive Nutrients

lOmega-3 fatty acids – Flaxseeds, walnuts, Fatty fish

lB-complex vitamins – Whole grains, millets

lMagnesium – Nuts, seeds, greens

These nutrients support nerve function and reduce inflammation.

Hydration is Crucial

During fever or infection consume

lTender coconut water

lRice kanji

lVegetable soups

lButtermilk

Prevent dehydration and electrolyte imbalance.

 

Children & Encephalitis

Children are more vulnerable due to:

lDeveloping immune systems

lExposure to mosquitoes

lNutritional deficiencies

Ensure:

✔ Timely vaccination
✔ Balanced diet
✔ Clean drinking water
✔ Mosquito prevention measures

Lifestyle & Preventive Tips

✔ Avoid stagnant water around home
✔ Use mosquito nets
✔ Maintain hand hygiene
✔ Eat freshly cooked food
✔ Sleep 7–8 hours daily
✔ Reduce processed food intake

Chronic junk food consumption weakens immunity over time.

 
Awareness

Recovery Nutrition After Encephalitis

Recovery may require:

lHigh-protein diet

lSoft, easy-to-digest foods

lFrequent small meals

lAnti-inflammatory foods (turmeric, garlic, ginger)

lDiet counseling based on neurological condition

lIn some patients, swallowing difficulties may require modified texture diets.

 

Why Awareness is Important

Encephalitis is often under diagnosed and misunderstood. Many people confuse it with fever or viral flu.

On this World Encephalitis Day – 22nd February 2026, let us:

lSpread awareness

lRecognize early symptoms

lPromote vaccination

lStrengthen immunity through nutrition

Final Message from a Dietician

Brain health is not only about memory and concentration.
It is about protecting the organ that controls your entire body.

Prevention starts with:

lBalanced diet

lHydration

lProper sleep

lHygiene

lVaccination

Your plate can support your protection.

 

By Saranya – Dietician, Nutrition Educator, Diabetes Educator


About the Author

    Saranya is a Dietician and Nutrition Educator with 20+ years of experience promoting traditional, practical, and sustainable food habits for better health. strongly believes that consistency and traditional diets are the key to long-term health and never recommends shortcuts for any health issues.

Read more practical nutrition articles at:  https://saranyanutritionist.blogspot.com/

Need guidance? Connect with Saranya for personalised diet support. Whatsapp link

⚠️ Disclaimer :For educational purposes only. Consult a professional for individual health advice.



Location: Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Strengthen Your Bones: Top Nutritional Tips for World Osteoporosis Day 2024

-
Image
Strengthen Your Bones: Top Nutritional Tips for World Osteoporosis Day 2024      World Osteoporosis Day, observed every year on October 20th, focuses on raising awareness about the importance of bone health. This year's theme, "Say No to Fragile Bones," emphasizes the need to protect our bones from becoming weak and brittle. Osteoporosis, often called the "silent disease," affects millions worldwide, causing fractures and impairing mobility, especially in older adults. However, with the right nutrition and lifestyle choices, we can strengthen our bones and ensure they remain healthy throughout our lives. Importance of Bone Health:      Bone health is crucial for overall well-being and longevity. Fragile bones, especially as we age, can lead to osteoporosis—a condition where bones become porous and weak. This increases the risk of fractures, particularly in the spine, hips, and wrists. For older adults, even a minor fall can result in serious injury. That’s ...
Read more

Breaking Barriers with Food: Top Indian Superfoods for Diabetes Management

-
Image
Breaking Barriers with Food: Top Indian Superfoods for Diabetes Management      Managing diabetes can often feel overwhelming, especially with the surge of conflicting dietary advice out there. But what if we turned to our traditional Indian kitchen for answers? For centuries, Indian cuisine has been rich in powerful ingredients that naturally support blood sugar control. On this World Diabetes Day, with the theme "Breaking Barriers, Bridging Gaps," let's explore how some simple, traditional Indian superfoods can help manage and even prevent diabetes. Fenugreek (Methi)      Fenugreek seeds are tiny, yet mighty when it comes to diabetes management. Rich in soluble fiber, fenugreek slows down carbohydrate absorption and improves insulin sensitivity. How to Include Fenugreek in Your Diet: Soaked Seeds: Soak 1 tablespoon of fenugreek seeds overnight and eat them on an empty stomach in the morning for better blood sugar control. Sprouts: Add fenugreek sprouts ...
Read more

What Is Good to Eat on an Empty Stomach in the Morning?

-
Image
 What Is Good to Eat on an Empty Stomach in the Morning? | Dietician’s Guide      Morning time is very important for our digestion, metabolism, and overall health. What we eat on an empty stomach can decide how energetic, fresh, and healthy we feel throughout the day.      As a dietician, I always suggest starting the day with simple, natural foods  that gently wake up your digestive system. Let’s see what is good to eat on an empty stomach , its benefits, and what to avoid . 1. Warm Water – The Best Way to Start Your Day Drinking a glass of warm water  as soon as you wake up is one of the simplest and healthiest habits. Benefits: l Improves digestion l Helps flush out toxins l Prevents constipation l Boosts metabolism l Keeps the body hydrated You can add a few drops of lemon if it suits you, but plain warm water is enough. 2. Soaked Nuts – Small Quantity, Big Benefits Soaked nuts are easy to digest and very nutritious when taken in the morn...
Read more