The first step for someone suffering from tuberculosis is to build their metabolism
Highlights
- Tuberculosis is an infectious disease which mainly attacks the lungs
- The first step for a tuberculosis patient to build their metabolism
- You must eat foods that will give you energy and boost your immunity
Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease which mainly attacks the lungs. It can also spread to the other parts of the body like the brain and spine. In case of chronic diseases, you may have to resort to medical treatment, but your diet can really help in supporting the process and restoring your health at a faster pace. If you are suffering from tuberculosis, it is critical to maintain a healthy diet which will eventually help in boosting our immunity and provide the necessary strength to recover.
Bangalore-based Nutritionist Dr Anju Sood, shares, "The first step for someone suffering from tuberculosis is to build their metabolism. Thus, you must eat foods that will give you energy as your body becomes very weak." She suggests that you should eat the following foods to give your body adequate nutrition:
1. Rava Ladoo or Ragi Porridge: You may lose a lot of weight due to sickness and loss of appetite. Therefore, you need to take calorie-dense foods. Rava ladoos or a wholesome porridge made with ragi grains can provide the energy needed.
2. Khichdi: A hot bowl of khichdi made with rice, dal and seasonal vegetables is one of the best ways to load up on carbohydrate, proteins and all the other nutrients required by the body. It is a complete meal in itself and is easy to digest.
3. Soybean: It helps strengthen your immune system which is necessary to fight the TB-causing bacteria.
4. Paneer: Paneer or cottage cheese can be sliced into small pieces and added to your khichdi or other meals. Paneer is a high source of protein which helps in building muscles and giving your strength.
5. Milk: Milk is also a great source of protein, providing strength necessary to perform day-to-day activities. "You can make a milkshake with mangoes and milk that combines carbohydrates with protein and is the ideal energy booster."
Dr. Sood also states, "This is a period when your body lacks vitamin A, C and B complex which have to be restored to their normal levels for the body to recover effectively". For this, you must include the following foods in your daily diet:
6. Fruits like Guava and Amla: These fruits are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants and help eliminate toxins from the body.
7. Bright colored vegetables: These will give you the much needed strength required to combat the high dose of antibiotics that you may have to take to treat tuberculosis. The pigments that impart colour to vegetables and fruits also act as powerful antioxidants that help in fighting disease-causing free radicals. You must also include foods in rich in Vitamin A like mango, papaya, apricot and vegetables such as carrots, tomatoes, sweet potatoes and broccoli.
8. Whole grains: Rich in vitamin B complex and fiber, whole grains will keep you energized and help fight fatigue and lethargy.
Following a healthy, balanced diet also ensures enhanced quality of life and productivity post recovery.