Increased caloric intake is scientifically validated as an important adjunct in the treatment and recovery from tuberculosis (TB). TB is a chronic infectious disease that often leads to significant weight loss and malnutrition due to increased metabolic demands, reduced appetite, and nutrient malabsorption. Malnutrition, in turn, impairs immune response, making it harder for the body to fight Mycobacterium tuberculosis and increasing the risk of poor outcomes or relapse. Several studies and guidelines from the World Health Organization (WHO) and other public health bodies recommend nutritional support, including increased calorie and protein intake, as part of comprehensive TB care, especially for undernourished patients.

Clinical trials and cohort studies have demonstrated that nutritional supplementation, such as high-calorie diets, can improve weight gain, enhance immune function, and may contribute to better treatment outcomes. However, while nutritional support is not a replacement for pharmacologic anti-TB therapy, it is an evidence-based supportive measure. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses (e.g., by the Cochrane Collaboration) indicate moderate evidence that caloric supplementation improves weight and nutritional status during TB treatment, though the direct impact on cure rates and mortality is less definitive.

Overall, the role of calories in TB management is scientifically validated as supportive care, with a solid evidence base for its benefits in nutritional rehabilitation and immune recovery during therapy.