Tuberculosis is a highly-contagious disease that may affect up to one-third of the world's population, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Some people infected with Mycobacteria tuberculosis, the bacteria responsible for this disease, may not experience symptoms. An active tuberculosis infection, however, can cause chest pain, fatigue, breathing difficulties, persistent cough and fever. Although vitamins cannot cure tuberculosis, certain vitamins may help you manage or prevent this disease. Talk to your physician before increasing your vitamin intake to treat or prevent tuberculosis.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is a natural immune system booster -- it may encourage the manufacturing of white blood cells to attack and destroy Mycobacterium tuberculosis cells, according to Phyllis Balch, C.N.C., author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." Vitamin A is also an antioxidant that may prevent free radical damage to lung tissues. Meats, such as beef, poultry and pork, are rich sources of vitamin A. Your body can also produce vitamin A from beta-carotene found in carrots, bell peppers, mustard greens, spinach and cayenne peppers.
Vitamin D
Your body manufactures vitamin D when your skin is exposed to sunlight. You can also obtain this vitamin from foods such as eggs, mackerel, oysters, salmon and fortified milk products. Vitamin D deficiencies are linked to increased risk of tuberculosis, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. However, evidence showing the connection between increased vitamin D consumption and tuberculosis prevention is not conclusive.
Riboflavin
Riboflavin, also known as vitamin B-2, plays an an important role in the metabolism of proteins, which are necessary for repairing lung and esophageal cells. It may help reduce cellular damage caused by tuberculosis, according to Balch. It strengthens mucous membranes, which may also prevent lung damage. Riboflavin also aids in the production of natural antibodies that destroy Mycobacteria tuberculosis cells. Boost your riboflavin intake by consuming foods such as yogurt, lentils, black beans, avocados, kale, mushrooms and lean poultry.
Vitamin C
Like vitamin A, vitamin C is a natural immune system booster that may prevent the spread of Mycobacteria tuberculosis. It aids in the production of interferon, a protein that offers antibody benefits. Vitamin C is necessary for lung and esophageal tissue repair, according to Balch. This vitamin is also an antioxidant. Broccoli, pineapple, mangoes, black currants, raspberries, tomatoes, citrus fruits and Swiss chard are abundant sources of natural vitamin C.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Tuberculosis
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C. et al.; 2010
