TB Treatment and Diet for Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis or TB is a life threatening disease, which is commonly seen in many places. Poor sanitary conditions, poverty, ignorance and lack of hygiene are some of the contributing factors for tuberculosis. It targets the lungs and causes pulmonary tuberculosis. Infection is generalized or localised at specific areas such as kidneys and lymph. Lack of sleep, intake of alcoholic beverages, exposure to cold and use of tobacco are some more contributing factors of tuberculosis. Avoidance of the above said factors provide great relief. Certain symptoms of tuberculosis are exhaustion, elevated body temperature, muscle wasting, expectoration and cough. Symptoms in the initial stages are cough, flushed face, increase in body temperature, general rundown condition, cough, and increase in circulation, fatigue, respiratory problems and loss of weight.

A six meal pattern is of great help. High energy and high protein diet is helpful in the acute stages of the illness. A full fluid diet is given. On convalescence, soft diet is given. Follow it up with regular diet. A full fluid diet is useful, especially because of the poor appetite and fatigue. The normal diet in the later stages should be a cereal and pulse combination. Small amount of animal foods are also included. Calcium rich foods provide relief from tuberculin lesions. Avoid high fat foods, as it results in diarrhoea and gastric upset.

Diet for Tuberculosis and Measures for Tuberculosis Prevention

A cereal pulse combination also aids in prevention of muscle wasting. Retinol in the diet is of immense importance, as tuberculosis affects the conversion of beta carotene to retinol. Some of the foods that might help are eggs, meat, milk and milk products. It is a highly contagious disease. An increase in the urinary ascorbic acid is seen. Supplements of ascorbic acid, in the form of Indian gooseberry, lemon, sprouts, guava and oranges provide vitamin C, which aids in healing of wounds. Adequate rest is necessary for speedy recovery. Fresh fruit diet is also recommended for the first three days. Avoid refined foods such as sugar, refined flour, canned and tinned foods, pies, pudding and refined cereals. Abstain from caffeinated beverages, in addition to pickles, sauces and condiments.

Avoid any kind of heavy work, as high strain levels worsen the condition. Deep breathing and massage also prove beneficial. Good ventilation helps in the elimination of the germs, due to the bacteriostatic action of the sun. Fresh air is of immense help. Use of warm water enema gets rid of constipation. Juice of pineapple helps to dissolve the mucus and thus helps in recovery. Orange juice with honey and salt exhibits saline action and prevents the entry of germs, thereby protecting from secondary infection.