Tuberculosis Diet: What Food You Should Eat and Avoid

What is Tuberculosis?

Tuberculosis is a dangerous bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The bacteria usually attack the lungs, but they can also target other parts of the body, such as the kidneys, spine, and brain. It spreads through tiny airborne droplets from sneezes and coughs. Untreated TB can be lethal, and malnourished individuals are more prone to contracting TB and relapsing after treatment. Symptoms of active TB include high fever, chills, decreased appetite, tiredness, and difficulty breathing.

TB-induced pathophysiological changes can lead to malnutrition. With TB, your body struggles to produce protein, causing a loss of appetite and resulting in nutrient deficiencies, muscle loss, and fat loss. This creates a vicious cycle: malnutrition can prolong active tuberculosis, while active TB can exacerbate malnutrition. Proper nutrition is crucial in fighting TB. A healthy diet combined with lifestyle changes can significantly aid in the tuberculosis treatment process.

Essential Nutrients for Tuberculosis Recovery

For patients battling tuberculosis (TB), a diet rich in macro- and micronutrients is crucial for overcoming the disease. Proper nutrition supports healing, boosts energy, and aids in the fight against infections.

Macro and Micronutrient-Rich Diet

To overcome tuberculosis, patients need a diet rich in macro and micronutrients. Tuberculosis-prevention food that is high in protein, such as soy, tofu, dairy, eggs, and lean meat, provides amino acids that help the body fight off infections. These foods assist in muscle development, reduce fatigue, and give patients the energy needed for daily activities and recovery.

Calorie-Dense, Nutrient-Dense Foods

Calorie-dense, nutrient-dense foods can meet the rising metabolic demands of tuberculosis patients while also preventing further weight loss. Essential foods for tuberculosis patients include bananas, grain lentil soup, groundnut chikki, wheat, and finger millet. Nuts and seeds, such as sunflower seeds, chia seeds, pumpkin seeds, and flaxseeds, are good sources of zinc and other essential nutrients.

Energy-Providing Carbohydrates

Whole grains, cereals, and millets, which are high in calories and carbohydrates, provide the body with the energy it needs to fight infection-causing bacteria. Incorporating these foods into the diet can help maintain energy levels and support overall health during treatment.

Vitamin-Rich Fruits and Vegetables

Vitamin A, B, C, and E-rich fruits and vegetables help recharge vitamin depletion caused by the disease and its treatment. Foods rich in antioxidants aid in removing toxins from the body, providing much-needed strength. These potent antioxidants also protect against the negative effects of high-dose medications and disease-causing free radicals.

Boosting Immunity with Antioxidants

To activate the immune system and prevent harmful free radicals, consume a variety of fruits and vegetables high in antioxidants and vitamins A, C, and E. To boost iron levels, include green leafy vegetables in your diet two to three times per week. Stay healthy by incorporating these nutritionally balanced foods into your diet to support recovery and overall well-being.

List of Food for Tuberculosis (TB) Patient

For tuberculosis patients, a nutrient-rich diet is crucial to support recovery. Tb patient food list include:

1. Khichdi: A wholesome dish made with rice and lentils, providing protein and essential nutrients.
2. Dahi (Yogurt): It is rich in probiotics. It aids digestion and boosts immunity.
3. Turmeric Milk: It exhibits anti-inflammatory properties that promote healing.
4. Spinach: It is high in iron and vitamins, it helps combat fatigue and boosts hemoglobin levels.
5. Almonds: These are good source of protein, healthy fats, and vitamin E for energy.
6. Amla (Indian Gooseberry): It is rich in vitamin C, it enhances immunity.
7. Garlic: It contains antibacterial properties that aid in fighting infections.
8. Jaggery: It provides iron and boosts energy levels.
9. Fresh Fruits: Fruits such as oranges, guavas, and papayas, for vitamin C and antioxidants.
10. Nimbu Pani (Lemon Water): Freshly made lemonade is hydrating and rich in vitamin C. It aids in detoxification and boosts immunity.

For a quick recovery from tuberculosis, focus on a balanced diet comprising lean, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to boost immunity and energy levels. Incorporate foods rich in vitamins C, D, and E, along with zinc and iron, to promote healing. Here is the diet plan for Tuberculosis for Indian diet.

Meal	Food Items
Breakfast	Option 1: Khichdi made with rice and moong dal (green gram lentils), topped with a dollop of ghee (clarified butter). Serve with a side of yogurt and a glass of turmeric milk. Option 2: Upma made with semolina (sooji) and mixed vegetables, flavored with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and green chilies. Enjoy with a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice.
Mid-Morning Snack	A small bowl of sprouts chaat seasoned with chaat masala, lemon juice, and chopped coriander leaves. Pair with a handful of almonds or roasted peanuts.
Lunch	Option 1: Roti made with whole wheat flour, served with palak paneer (spinach and cottage cheese curry) and a bowl of dal tadka (tempered lentil soup). Accompany with a side salad of cucumber, tomato, and carrot. Option 2: Bhindi masala (okra stir-fry) with jeera rice (cumin-flavored rice) and rajma (kidney bean curry). Include a serving of sliced mango or papaya for dessert.
Evening Snack	Dhokla made from fermented gram flour (besan), flavored with mustard seeds and curry leaves. Enjoy with mint chutney or a tangy tamarind dip. Sip on a cup of herbal tea infused with tulsi (holy basil) and ginger for added immune support.
Dinner	Option 1: Baked or grilled fish (such as pomfret or salmon) marinated in a mixture of yogurt, turmeric, and spices. Serve with brown rice pulao and a side of mixed vegetable raita. Option 2: Masoor dal (red lentil curry) served with roti or paratha and aloo gobi (potato and cauliflower curry). Conclude the meal with a warm bowl of kheer (rice pudding) flavored with cardamom and saffron.
Bedtime Snack	A glass of warm turmeric milk sweetened with a touch of honey or jaggery. Enjoy alongside a small serving of soaked figs or dates for added nutrition.

Suggested Medicines for Tuberculosis

1. Fericip Xt Tablet 10

Fericip Xt Tablet 10 is designed to effectively manage iron and folate deficiencies. Enriched with ferrous ascorbate and folic acid, it helps maintain healthy iron levels necessary for red blood cell production.

How to Use?

• Swallow the tablet whole without crushing or chewing.
• Take as directed by your doctor.

2. Supradyn Daily Tablet 15

Supradyn Tablet strengthens your immune system, aiding in infection resistance and promoting overall health and well-being.

How to Use?

• Swallow the tablet whole; avoid crushing or chewing.
• Consult your doctor before starting or discontinuing any other medications or supplements.
• The tablet can be taken with or without food.

3. New A To Z Gold Capsule 15

New A To Z Gold Capsule is designed to fill nutritional gaps, providing the body with a balanced mix of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to support overall health.

How to Use?

• Swallow the capsule whole with water.
• It is generally recommended to take the capsule with a meal or as directed by your doctor. This helps improve absorption and reduces the chance of stomach discomfort.
• Do not break or chew the capsule.

4. Meganeuron OD Plus Capsule 10

Meganeuron OD Plus Capsule is primarily used to replenish essential nutrients in the body and promote overall health.

How to Use?

• Take Meganeuron OD Plus Capsule exactly as prescribed by your doctor, adhering to the recommended dose and duration.
• You may take the capsule with or without food; however, it is best to take it at a consistent time each day.
• Swallow the capsule whole without breaking or crushing it.

5. A To Z Ns Plus Tablet 15

A To Z Ns Plus Tablet is a multivitamin and mineral supplement that provides essential nutrients required for the body’s optimal functioning.

How to Use?

• Take A To Z Ns Plus Tablet exactly as directed by your doctor, following the prescribed dose and duration.
• It can be taken with or without food, but try to take it at the same time each day for best results.
• Swallow the tablet whole without breaking or crushing it.

6. Cipcal-XT Tablet 15

Cipcal-XT Tablet is used to address nutritional deficiencies and is typically prescribed when your diet alone does not provide the essential nutrients your body requires.

How to Use?

• Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor, following the recommended dose and duration.
• Swallow the tablet whole without chewing, crushing, or breaking it.

7. CoQ 300 Softgel 15

CoQ 300 Softgel is a dietary supplement designed to support heart health and overall well-being by providing essential nutrients that the body needs daily.

How to Use?

• Take CoQ 300 Softgel as per your doctor’s advice regarding the recommended dose and duration.
• Swallow the softgel whole without chewing, crushing, or breaking it.

8. Bio-D3 Max Capsule 15

Bio-D3 Max Capsule is a nutritional supplement designed to support bone health, maintain cardiovascular function, and promote nervous system well-being.

How to Use?

• Swallow the capsule whole with a glass of water.
• Do not chew or crush the capsule.
• For optimal absorption, take it with a meal.
• Do not exceed the recommended dose unless instructed by your doctor.

9. Orofer XT Tablet 30

Orofer XT Tablet is mainly used to treat iron and folic acid deficiencies and the anaemia associated with them.

How to Use?

• Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.
• Do not chew or crush the tablet.
• For optimal absorption, take the tablet with a meal.
• Do not exceed the recommended dose unless your doctor advises otherwise.

10. Mecofol Plus Nf Capsule 10

Mecofol Plus Nf Capsule 10 is designed to address vitamin and mineral deficiencies, especially those impacting nerve health.

How to Use?

• Take one capsule daily, with or without food.
• Swallow the capsule whole without chewing or crushing it.
• Do not exceed the recommended dose unless instructed by your doctor.

Food to Avoid in Tuberculosis

Certain foods and substances should never be consumed or used to maintain good health. These are the following food to avoid,

• Tobacco in any form should be avoided.
• Don’t drink alcohol because it can increase the risk of liver damage from some of the drugs you’re taking to treat your tuberculosis.
• Limit how much coffee and other caffeinated beverages you drink.
• Red wine, aged cheese, dried meats, tuna, and other types of fish may also be avoided. This is due to the presence of tyramine or histamine. These foods may cause the medicine to have unfavourable effects.
• Sugar, white bread, white rice, and butter, which are used to make pastries, cakes, pizza, burgers, and other junk foods, should be avoided.
• Sugar, white loaves of bread, and white rice are all refined products to avoid.
• Red meat with a lot of fat and cholesterol should be avoided.
• Deep-fried foods and unhealthy snacks high in triacylglycerols and trans fats aggravate TB ailments like severe diarrhoea, stomach cramps, and lethargy.

Make every effort to give your body the nutrition it needs to stay healthy and build strength so that you can fight off tuberculosis bacteria and lower your risk of relapse.

You will feel better, and faster if you eat a varied, healthy diet and avoid unhealthy habits.
It is mandatory to take TB medications regularly and to complete the treatment course as directed by your health care expert.

Regular and timely medication is critical for someone who is suffering from tuberculosis. Diet, on the other hand, is crucial for recovery and for tuberculosis prevention. This isn’t to say you should eat only exotic and organic foods. Eating a well-balanced diet aid in the fight against this bacterial infection.Additionally, you can order medicine online by using the Truemeds app for regular and timely medication.

Even though there is no specific diet to follow, you must ensure that the food is prepared in a sanitary manner. Make sure to eat a well-balanced diet as well. This will help in tuberculosis prevention by increasing immunity.
You should also try to increase your food intake gradually. The majority of tuberculosis patients initially have a low appetite. However, as the medications begin to work, appetite rises and food consumption rises with it.

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