Written By: Kriti Saraswat | Published : October 27, 2014 11:51 AM IST
The latest episode of Satyamev Jayate stressed on the fact how TB is spreading in India and claiming so many lives. It is a deadly disease which is easily spread from one person to the other and can make life living hell as the treatment is quite expensive and has several side-effects. But it was also pointed out that the right diet can help reduce the chances of tuberculosis and also help people recover better.
The episode gave examples of Europe and US who were successful in containing the epidemic with the help of timely treatment and a nutritious diet.We asked Dr Neha Sanwalka who has a PhD in Health Sciences about the right diet a person with tuberculosis should consume.
She says, 'A TB patient should consume a calorie-rich diet, high in proteins, minerals and vitamins.' Here's how they help:
Proteins: A diet for TB patient should be rich in proteins. Protein-rich foods such as egg, chicken, lean cuts of meat, milk, paneer, cheese, and pulses and legumes should be included in the diet. Isolated protein powders may be added to increase the protein content of the diet.
Vitamin D and calcium: Medicines for TB hinders the metabolism of vitamin D which in turn affects calcium metabolism TB. Patients suffering from TB should incorporate about 3/4 - 1 litre of milk and milk products in their diet to meet their calcium requirements unless they are allergic to milk. Calcium and Vitamin D supplementation should be considered.
Iron: There may also be severe blood loss due to hemorrhages in TB patients increasing the requirements for iron. Rich sources of iron include egg yolk, liver, garden cress seeds, poha, etc.
Vitamin A and C: Vitamin A and C metabolism is altered in tuberculosis and is also required to boost immunity. Rich sources of vitamin A include milk, milk products, eggs, lean meat, fruits and vegetables and rick sources of vitamin C include guava, lemon, sprouts and citrus fruits.
Vitamin B6: Pyridoxine or vitamin B6 requirements are also increased for patients suffering from TB. Rich sources of vitamin B6 include brewers yeast, brown rice, ocean fish, wheat germ, walnuts, bananas, cabbage, carrots, corn, green peas, pears, rye bread, potatoes.
Dr Neha also shares a sample diet plan for TB patients:
This is just a sample diet. In addition, studies have shown that garlic extract helps fight TB. Thus, along with anti-TB medicines, garlic extract in the form of capsules or garlic paste can be incorporated in cooking for a TB patient.
Image source: Getty Images
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