Tuberculosis is a disease caused by Mycobacteria tuberculosis, a bacteria that infects lung tissues. Some people with tuberculosis infections do not experience any symptoms, while others may have symptoms such as lung inflammation, breathing difficulties, bloody phlegm, fatigue, headache and fever. Diet cannot cure tuberculosis, but certain foods may help reduce symptoms and prevent complications. Check with your physician if you plan to change your diet to help your tuberculosis.
Garlic
Garlic is well known as as an ingredient in Italian pasta sauces, Asian stir fry dishes, Indian soups and curries and Mexican burritos and tacos. However, its use as a medicinal food dates back to the ancient Egyptians, who used it to enhance physical strength and ward off illness. Allicin, a chemical in fresh garlic, may help control the growth and spread of Mycobacteria tuberculosis, according to certified nutritional consultant Phyllis Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." Garlic may also help your body produce white blood cells, which are responsible for infection prevention.
Vitamin C-Rich Foods
Vitamin C acts as an immune system booster by encouraging the production of interferon, a natural antibody, states Balch. This vitamin is also an antioxidant that may inhibit free radical activity, preventing cellular damage, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Free radicals can attack the tissues of your lungs, causing damage that may worsen chest pains, breathing difficulties and other tuberculosis symptoms. Kiwi fruit, spinach, broccoli, avocados, raspberries, citrus fruits, strawberries and mangoes are rich sources of natural vitamin C.
Vitamin D-Rich Foods
Your body primarily manufactures vitamin D from exposure to sunlight, but you can also get it from foods. Eggs, fortified milk, dandelion greens, shiitake mushrooms, mackerel and butter all contain vitamin D. A deficiency of this vitamin may increase your risk of developing tuberculosis. However, the link between increased vitamin D intake or supplementation and tuberculosis symptoms is not clear, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Zinc-Rich Foods
Zinc is a mineral that may help improve immune system function, helping your body ward off tuberculosis infection, according to Balch. This mineral may also aid in the repair of lung cells, which may help promote normal breathing and repair damage caused by frequent coughing. Like vitamin C, zinc may offer antioxidant benefits. Boost your zinc intake by consuming pecans, lentils, oysters, lima beans, chickpeas, pumpkin seeds and alfalfa.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Tuberculosis; Steven D. Ehrlich, NMD; August 2008
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C., et al.; 2010
