Treatment

Tuberculosis Diet: What to Eat and What to Avoid

Written By

Jagruti Rehab

Last Updated on: 02 Apr 2025

Bacterial infections like tuberculosis damage the lungs and can affect other parts of the human body. Unfortunately, India has the highest number of tuberculosis cases in the world, with 26% of all patients being Indian. Each year more than 2080000 new cases are diagnosed in the country. It is time to take proper care to cure this disease. The best way to fight infections like TB is to boost immunity through proper nutrition. 

Along with medicines, consuming a balanced helps in faster and more efficient recovery. In this blog, we will discuss what to eat in tuberculosis and what not to eat in tuberculosis. We will provide you with clear guidelines on the accurate food choices that will help in your recovery.

Importance of Nutrition for TB Recovery

Tuberculosis puts a body under severe stress. Malnutrition cripples the immunity system and lowers the recovery process. Medicines prescribed to most TB patients in India have some side effects. It includes nausea and loss of appetite. Consuming a nutritional diet helps fight against the infection improve the immunity system and deal with the side effects of the disease.

What to Eat in Tuberculosis?

Most patients suffering from tuberculosis recognise the importance of having a nutritional diet for recovering from the disease. However, they don’t know what to eat in tuberculosis. Here are some food items that boost immunity and aid in fast recovery:

Protein-Rich Foods

Tuberculosis often damages body tissues. Absorbable protein helps rebuild the tissues and reinforce the immune system. Protein-rich food includes:

• Lean meats (chicken, turkey)
• Eggs
• Fish
• Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yoghurt
• Plant-based proteins like lentils, chickpeas, and tofu

Foods Rich in Vitamins and Minerals

Vitamins A, C, and E are excellent tuberculosis healers and enhance the immunity system. Food items rich in vitamins and minerals include:

• Citrus fruits like oranges and lemons
• Spinach, kale, and other leafy greens
• Carrots, sweet potatoes, and bell peppers
• Berries like blueberries and strawberries

Whole Grains and Fibre-Rich Foods

Maintaining steady energy levels is essential to let the body heal from tuberculosis. Wholegrains help to retain it. It includes:

• Brown rice
• Whole wheat bread
• Oats
• Quinoa

Healthy Fats

Healthy fats help in nutritional absorption in the body, essential to provide energy and speed up the TB recovery process. Common foods that include healthy fats are:

• Avocados
• Olive oil
• Nuts and seeds
• Fatty fish like salmon and mackerel

Probiotics for Gut Health

One of the common side effects of tuberculosis medicines is gut microbiota dysbiosis, an imbalance of gut microbes. Including probiotics in the diet helps stabilise this disruption. Some of the most helpful probiotics are found in:

• Yogurt with live cultures
• Kefir
• Fermented foods like sauerkraut and kimchi

Consuming these foods helps TB patients get all the nutrients to build a strong immunity system and allow the body to heal easily.

What Not to Eat in Tuberculosis?

Paying attention to what food to eat in tuberculosis is important. It is equally essential to avoid foods that can stop or delay the recovery process. Here is a list of what not to eat in tuberculosis.

Processed and Junk Foods

Processed foods are high in preservatives and low in nutrients. Consuming these items can weaken the immunity system. Here are the food items to avoid:

• Packaged snacks
• Fast food
• Ready-to-eat meals

Sugary Drinks and Foods

Excessive consumption of sugar can damage the immune system. It causes inflammation, disturbing the white blood cell function, altering gut health and making it more vulnerable to infections. Hence, it is best to stay away from food items like:

• Soft drinks
• Candies and sweets
• Pastries and baked goods

Alcohol and Tobacco

Alcohol and tobacco threaten the immunity system. Tobacco negatively impacts the lungs. Alcohol consumption increases the side effects of tuberculosis medications, blocking its actions and impairing the immunity system. It increases the risk of relapse and mortality. Hence, tobacco and alcohol should be completely avoided during tuberculosis treatment.

Hydration and Fluids

Like food, proper hydration is essential for tuberculosis patients. It helps in the detoxification of the body and keeps up the energy levels. Healthcare professionals recommend drinking:

• Water
• Coconut water
• Herbal teas

However, sugary and caffeinated drinks must strictly be avoided. They cause dehydration and affect the immune system.

Special Considerations for Malnourished TB Patients

TB often undernourishes the human body severely. When you consider what to eat in tuberculosis Focussing on energy-dense foods is invaluable in these cases, like:

• Full-fat dairy products
• Nut butters
• Nutritional supplements recommended by a healthcare provider

At Jagruti Rehabilitation Centre, we take care of the medical, therapeutic and nutritional needs of every patient. We tailor personalised nutritional plans for all patients, including those who are malnourished, and provide proper care and support for faster recovery.

Why Choose Jagruti Rehab for Tuberculosis Care?

At Jagruti Rehabilitation Centre, we recognise the significance of a holistic approach to tuberculosis care. Our expert dieticians curate personalised nutritional plans to guarantee that patients get the right nutrition during recovery. Our complete rehabilitation care programs focus on all aspects of a patient’s well-being, from treatment to what to eat in tuberculosis and what not to eat in tuberculosis. Connect with Jagruti Rehab for complete recovery from tuberculosis, whether you need dietary guidance, emotional support or a protective environment for your healing journey.

Author

Jagruti Rehabilitation Centre is a leading facility specializing in mental health, dementia, and addiction recovery. The team of psychiatrists, psychologists, and caregivers is committed to empowering individuals on their journey to recovery.