The role of nutrition in fìghting TB

Tuberculosis (TB) is a bacterial infection that mostly affects the lungs and carries a significant risk of transmission. Experts believe that good nutrition is crucial for treating and managing Tuberculosis, even though it can be managed with medication. Indeed, Tuberculosis can have a substantial negative impact on an individual’s nutritional state and compromise the immune system, making it more difficult for the body to fight off infections. In this article, we will discuss nutrition’s role in the prevention, treatment, and management of Tuberculosis.

TB patients frequently experience weight loss and malnutrition, which can exacerbate symptoms and hinder recovery. The body needs proper nutrients to fight infection and maintain a healthy weight. Experts have suggested whole grains, lean meats, fruits, and vegetables as part of a balanced diet that can give the body the critical nutrients it requires to strengthen and heal itself. Some of these foods include cereals, eggs, fish, chicken, soya, and nuts, while the vegetables include tomatoes and green leafy vegetables. Caregivers leaving with tuberculosis patients should also ensure they consume fruits such as oranges, mangoes, sweet pumpkin, and carrots, as it greatly helps treat Tuberculosis. Moreover, as TB can result in weariness and weakness, eating adequate calories is necessary to sustain energy levels.

Additionally, this disease can interfere with the body’s ability to absorb nutrients, resulting in vitamin and mineral deficiencies. It is also worth noting that since the bacterium that causes TB can also lower Vitamin D levels in the body, Vitamin D insufficiency is particularly prevalent in persons with TB. In addition to being required for bone health, Vitamin D aids in the body’s absorption of calcium, which is necessary for the healthy operation of muscles and neurons. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure the body gets enough Vitamin D through exposure to sunshine, especially in the morning, when treating TB.

Furthermore, research conducted on the disease has established a connection between malnutrition and TB, because those who are undernourished are more likely to contract the disease and are also more likely to experience more severe symptoms. This is because a poor diet impairs immunity, making it harder to fend off diseases. Although this may apply to all other infections, it is particularly highlighted in the case of Tuberculosis.