World TB Day

THEME 2016 : UNITE TO END TB

• TuBerculosis (MTB, TB) is an infectious disease usually caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. 
• Tuberculosis generally affects the lungs, but can also affect other parts of the body. Most infections do not have symptoms, known as latent tuberculosis. About 10% of latent infections progress to active disease which, if left untreated kills about half of those infected.
•  The classic symptoms of active TB are a chronic cough with blood-containing sputum, fever, night sweats, and weight loss. The historical term "consumption" came about due to the weight loss. Infection of other organs can cause a wide range of symptoms

Getting Good Nutrition When You Have TB

To give your body the vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients it needs to fight active tuberculosis and regain your strength and stamina, you need to eat a diet containing a variety of healthy foods, such as:

• Leafy, dark-colored greens like kale and spinach, for their high iron and B-vitamin content
• Plenty of whole grains, like whole wheat pastas, breads, and cereals
• Antioxidant-rich, brightly-colored vegetables, such as carrots, peppers, and squash, and fruits, like tomatoes, blueberries, and cherries — think of buying produce in a full rainbow of colors
• Unsaturated fats like vegetable or olive oil, instead of butter

What to Avoid When You Have Active Tuberculosis

As is always the case for good health, there are certain foods you shouldn’t eat and substances you shouldn’t use.

• Skip tobacco in all forms.
• Don't drink alcohol — it can add to the risk of liver damage from some of the drugs used to treat your TB.
• Limit coffee and other caffeinated drinks.
• Limit refined products, like sugar, white breads, and white rice.
• Avoid high-fat, high-cholesterol red meat and instead load up on leaner protein sources like poultry, beans, tofu, and fish

Tips to prevent the spread of Tuberculosis

• Avoid close contact
• Enhance your immunity
• Keep a tab on your protein intake
• Consume a healthy, nutrient-rich meal
• Make it a habit to exercise regularly
• Try meditation to improve your quality of life
• Always maintain proper hygiene and sanitation
• Get your children vaccinated
• Adhere to medication (NEVER stop course of drugs midway)
• Stay away from stress
• Get your daily dose of sleep