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When we think about Tuberculosis, the first thing that comes to our mind are the TV ads portraying how dangerous of a disease it is. But, do you know that “India is the highest contributor of TB cases worldwide”? YES, India carries a whopping 28% burden of global TB cases. This explains why there is such a widespread awareness of TB in India. It is a much more harmful disease than we assume, affecting people of all ages and backgrounds. In this blog, let us deep dive into the epidemiology of Tuberculosis and together how diet can help manage this deadly bacterial disease.
Tuberculosis – Its Causes
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The bacterium “Mycobacterium tuberculosis” is the reason behind this dangerous and infectious disease called Tuberculosis (TB). This condition primarily affects a patient’s lungs, but it’s not only limited to it. When there is active TB in the body for weeks and the affected person does not receive any treatment, the condition can worsen and affect the brain, kidneys, and spine, and become life-threatening.
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TB is airborne, so when an infected person coughs, sneezes, speaks, or sings, he or she can spread the disease to others. While medication remains the golden standard of treatment, diet also plays a very important role in aiding the body's fight against TB. Visit a top hospital for tuberculosis treatment in Salem for the best results.
How Does Diet Play a Role in TB Patients?
A common problem among most TB-affected people is malnutrition. Eating a healthy and balanced diet with a variety of nutrient-rich foods can help to maintain the body’s strength and prevent malnutrition. Since malnutrition weakens the immune system, strengthening the immune system helps fight off the active TB bacteria and lowers its risk of complications.
Diet Plan for Tuberculosis - What to Eat?
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Protein-Rich Foods
Protein boosts growth, repairs damaged cells and tissues, and helps us stay immune. To stay healthy and reduce the risk of complications or infections, adhering to a protein-rich diet is a must. Lean meat, fish, eggs, beans, and lentils - all are protein-rich foods.
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Iron-Rich Foods
Iron is responsible for red blood cell formation - these cells carry oxygen throughout the body and when a person has TB, he or she is at a high risk of anaemia, meaning s/he does not have enough red blood cells in the body. A diet consisting of iron-rich foods such as lean red meat, poultry, fish, beans, lentils, fortified cereals, and dark leafy vegetables can be helpful to prevent this condition.
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Vitamin A
Preventing TB is all about improving our immunity and consuming meals that include vitamin A foods can help build a strong immune system. Ensure your diet includes vitamin A-rich foods like sweet potatoes, carrots, spinach, and other leafy green vegetables.
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Vitamin C
Vitamin C works as an antioxidant - it improves our immune system and maintains bone health and skin health. It also protects us if we are at risk of possible infections and complications of TB. Citrus fruits, kiwi, papaya, mango, berries, tomatoes, etc. are all you can opt for as your daily vitamin C intake.
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Zinc-Rich Foods
There are tons of evidence that show that zinc supplements for TB patients have been helpful in fighting off the bacterium and boosting the immune system. Some zinc food products TB patients can opt for are - whole grains, oysters, beans, nuts, beef, pork, etc.
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Vitamin D
Vitamin D’s primary role is maintaining healthy bones and muscles and keeping us immune. Take sunlight in the morning for a healthy start to the day, and consume vitamin D-rich foods like eggs, fatty fish, milk, etc.
Foods to Avoid
Not all foods can protect us and prevent Tuberculosis (TB). Look out for some foods that you might need to avoid until you get better:
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Alcohol
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Caffeine
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Spicy foods
Along with dietary guidelines, it is also equally important to remain hydrated. Drink plenty of water - it helps to flush out toxins and waste products from our body and helps prevent TB infections.
Consult a top pulmonologist in Salem for diagnosis and treatment of TB.
