Tuberculosis -- or pulmonary tuberculosis, specifically -- is a bacterial infection that affects your lungs and can spread from one person to another. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that pulmonary tuberculosis is caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculosis, and that infants, elderly individuals and people with weak immune systems may be more susceptible to this infection. Dietary factors are an important part of a well-rounded TB treatment plan, but consult your doctor before making dietary changes.
Tuberculosis Background
Pulmonary tuberculosis, according to the PubMed Health website, is usually contracted by inhaling respiratory droplets from an infected person, which is known as primary tuberculosis. In most cases, the primary stage of tuberculosis does not cause symptoms. When symptoms of pulmonary tuberculosis arise, you may experience a productive cough, night sweats, fever, fatigue, unexplained weight loss, chest pain, breathing problems and wheezing. PubMed Health, a National Center for Biotechnology Information website, states that there are about 10 cases of tuberculosis for every 100,000 people in the United States.
A TB Patient's Diet
A diet consisting of at least 50 percent raw fruits and vegetables may be helpful in treating your tuberculosis, says certified nutritional consultant Phyllis A. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." Beneficial foods and beverages for tuberculosis may include alfalfa sprouts, fish, fowl, raw cheeses, pomegranates, raw seeds and nuts, whole grains, garlic, pineapple and carrot juice, asparagus, kefir, buttermilk and sugar-free yogurt. These foods may promote healing, stimulate immune function and improve your body's ability to absorb nutrients. More scientific testing may be required to determine the specific health effects of these foods.
Highlighted Food
Garlic may be helpful in treating a tuberculosis bacterial infection. According to Dr. Sharol Tilgner, a naturopathic physician and author of "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," garlic possesses antibacterial, anti-fungal and anti-parasitic action as well as the ability to support your immune function and inhibit tumor growth. Tuberculosis can cause lung scarring, which is a risk factor for lung cancer. Garlic has historically been used to promote heart health, optimal inflammatory status, weight control and optimal health.
Disclaimer
Tuberculosis is a serious health condition that must be treated by a qualified health professional in a timely and appropriate manner to avoid complications. Diet is an important consideration for people with tuberculosis and may be a helpful adjunct therapy in treating tuberculosis. Diet alone, however, will not cure your condition. Certain foods, when used medicinally, may cause unwanted health effects in your body. Ask your doctor about the most helpful foods to consume -- or avoid -- before using nutritional therapy to treat your tuberculosis.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Pulmonary Tuberculosis
- PubMed Health: Tuberculosis
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
