Tuberculosis is a bacterial infection that is caused by myobacterium tuberculosis bacteria. TB usually invades the lungs but may also affect other parts of the body such as the spine, brain and kidneys. TB is transmitted through air droplets from a cough or sneeze from an infected person. Patients with poor nutrition are at increased risk for TB, according to MayoClinic.com. Certain foods may help prevent TB infection.
High-Protein and High-Calorie Foods
Patients with TB should choose foods high in protein such as meat, fish, poultry, milk, dairy products, dried beans, beans, peas and lentils, according to USAID. Protein-rich foods provide the protein needed for the body to repair and heal itself. Patients with TB should also eat high-calorie foods to provide the body with extra energy for healing. High-protein and high-calorie foods also prevent weight loss in patients with active TB. Examples of high-protein and high-calorie foods suitable for patients with TB include milk shakes, cheese and yogurt.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables should be included in the diet of patients with TB. Fruits and vegetables provide the body the antioxidants and vitamins needed by the body to fight TB germs. Fruits and vegetables also provide nutrients such as vitamin A, C, B-6, iron and calcium, which are important in maintaining good health in patients with TB. Patients taking TB medications such as isoniazid are often advised to increase intake of vitamin B-6 foods to prevent neurological damage.
Foods to Avoid
Patients with active TB symptoms should avoid alcoholic beverages such as beer, wine, vodka and hard liquor, according to USAID. Alcohol lacks nutrients and damages the liver. Patients who take alcohol together with TB medications such as rifampin and isoniazid are at increased risk for liver damage. Malnourished patients are at increased risk for TB. Processed foods should be avoided, too, since they provide little nutrition.
Symptoms of Tuberculosis
Patients with active TB experience symptoms such as coughing up blood, cough that lasts longer than three weeks, shortness of breath, breathing difficulties, chest pain, wheezing, fatigue, fever, chills, excessive sweating, clubbing of the toes or fingers, back pain, enlarged and tender lymph nodes and unintentional weight loss, according to MayoClinic.com. Patients with latent or inactive TB infection do not display symptoms of TB.
