Tuberculosis and Nutrition: Role of Vitamin A and Diet Tips for TB Patients

Tuberculosis, or TB, is caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It’s a serious infection that mainly affects the lungs but can also impact the kidneys, spine, and brain. The disease spreads through airborne droplets released when an infected person coughs or sneezes. People with poor nutrition are more susceptible to TB, which is why maintaining proper nutrient intake is crucial.

Some common symptoms of TB include high fever, chills, loss of appetite, extreme fatigue, and difficulty in breathing. Early detection and appropriate care are essential to manage the disease.

A study published in the journal Clinical Infectious Diseases has found a significant link between vitamin A deficiency and TB. People lacking in vitamin A were found to be ten times more likely to develop TB. According to Megan Murray, a professor at Harvard Medical School, a diet rich in vitamin A can help reduce the risk and severity of TB. This suggests that proper nutrition, especially adequate intake of vitamin A, is vital in preventing TB and supporting patients already diagnosed with the disease.

When it comes to diet, TB patients are advised to consume foods that are rich in both macro and micronutrients. High-protein foods such as soy, tofu, dairy products, eggs, lean meats, and sources of amino acids are important for fighting infections and maintaining muscle strength.

Eating calorie-dense and nutrient-rich foods can speed up recovery. Patients should include bananas, lentil soups, peanut chikki, wheat, and ragi in their meals. Nutrient-packed seeds like sunflower seeds, chia seeds, pumpkin seeds, and flax seeds provide essential minerals like zinc, which support immune function.

Energy-providing carbohydrates from whole grains and millets help restore strength. A diet rich in essential vitamins and minerals—particularly vitamins A, B, C, and E—is also recommended. These vitamins support various immune functions and overall health.

Finally, including antioxidant-rich foods in the diet can help reduce oxidative stress and strengthen the immune response. Foods high in vitamins A, C, and E are particularly helpful in speeding up the healing process and improving the body's defense system against TB.