Tuberculosis kills more than 2 million people worldwide each year, according to MayoClinic.com. It is a contagious illness caused by an airborne bacteria known as Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It usually affects the lungs but can attack any part of the body, including the spine and brain. Symptoms include fatigue, coughing up blood, weakness and weight loss. If you have been diagnosed with tuberculosis, you are at risk for malnutrition and protein deficiencies. Following a balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrients can help you regain your lost weight and fight the infection.
Grains and Starches
When you begin treatment, you should start to regain some of your lost weight, says the Net Wellness health website. Eating adequate amounts of grains and starches can help promote weight gain. Talk to your doctor or dietitian about your calorie needs and how much you need to eat each day. Grains and starches provide your body with energy, fiber, B vitamins, magnesium and iron. Make at least three of your grain choices whole grain to maximize your nutrient intake. Healthy grain and starch choices include whole wheat bread, brown rice, corn and wheat tortillas, whole-wheat pasta, barley, bulgur, whole-grain cereals, whole-grain crackers and popcorn.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables contain vitamin A and vitamin C, important nutrients for your immune system. Eat at least 4-1/2 cups of fruits and vegetables a day during your tuberculosis treatment, says Net Wellness, to maximize your nutrient intake. Healthy choices include sweet potatoes, white potatoes, carrots, spinach, broccoli, leafy greens, kale, peas, lentils, soy beans, green beans, peppers, mushrooms, zucchini and asparagus.
Meat and Meat Substitutes
Adequate intakes of protein from meat and meat substitutes can help preserve lean body mass, rebuild protein stores and help you fight the tuberculosis infection. Most Americans get adequate amounts of protein in their diet, according to Net Wellness. Choose lean sources of meat to limit your intake of saturated fat. Healthy meat and meat substitute choices include poultry, fish, beef eye of round, pork tenderloin, lamb chops, eggs, peanut butter, nuts and tofu.
Dairy Foods
Dairy foods also provide your body with protein, in addition to being sources of vitamin D and calcium. Net Wellness recommends three servings of dairy foods a day. Choose low-fat and nonfat dairy foods to limit your intake of saturated fat. Healthy choices for tuberculosis includes 1 percent fat milk, nonfat milk, low-fat yogurt, low-fat cheese and soy milk.
Nutritional Supplements
Tuberculosis can affect your appetite, making it harder for you to eat enough to maintain a healthy weight. In some cases, nutritional supplementation may be necessary. Nutritional supplements provide your body with a concentrated source of calories, protein, vitamins and minerals. Examples of nutritional supplements include Carnation Instant Breakfast, Ensure and Boost.
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