There are two types of meningitis, according to Medline Plus: bacterial and viral. You get viral meningitis when a virus enters your nose or mouth and travels to the brain, causing inflammation of the thin tissue surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Similar but deadlier symptoms occur from bacterial meningitis when a cold-like infection blocks vessels in your brain, leading to brain damage or a stroke. Vaccinations can help prevent meningitis, and nutrition is an important aspect of treatment.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, foods high in omega-3 fatty acids may help reduce inflammation caused by meningitis as well as strengthen your immune system. The polyunsaturated fats are important for brain function as well as reducing inflammation. Fish like tuna, halibut and salmon are effective sources of the essential fatty acids. Other sources include flaxseed, soybeans, walnuts, pumpkin seeds and the oils made from the nuts and seeds.
Probiotics
Yogurt that contains added probiotics may improve gastrointestinal difficulties often associated with meningitis. Probiotics in supplements or foods with the healthy bacteria added also boost the immune system to help fight off the meningitis infection. Probiotics contain strains of the healthy bacteria naturally present in your stomach. Besides yogurt, other foods that often contain added probiotics include milk and cheese. Tempeh, a soy product that contains healthy bacteria, and miso are other effective sources of probiotics.
Phytochemicals
Plant estrogens, or phytochemicals such as genistein, may inhibit the activity of chemicals related to meningitis, according to the Life Extension Foundation. Tyrosine kinases are chemicals directly linked to the inflammation associated with the disease, and they promote the ability of the bacteria to cross blood barriers in your brain that keep out dangerous infections. Genistein is an isoflavone and phystoestrogen that may reduce the severity of the symptoms and can play a role in meningitis prevention. The phytochemical is found primarily in soy and foods made with soy protein. Soy milk, tofu, tempeh and miso are effective sources of genistein.
Vitamins
Food that is high in vitamin C can protect you against serious complications if you contract bacterial meningitis, according to the Life Extension Foundation. The antioxidant properties in vitamin C-rich foods help fight off the free radicals that weaken the immune system. Vitamin C is associated with the body's ability to fight off infection and may be helpful in treating bacterial meningitis. Effective dietary sources of vitamin C include citrus fruit such as oranges, grapefruit and tomatoes. Cantaloupe, raw red peppers, broccoli, strawberries and kiwi are other good sources of vitamin C.
