Nutrition Plays A Role In Hiv Treatment

The human body depends a great deal on the nutrients that are consumed on a daily basis

. An improper diet can cause the body to become more susceptible to disease as the body is not able to maintain the immune system as well as it would otherwise be capable of doing. Individuals who have been diagnosed with HIV have to pay special attention to their diet as their systems are under attack all the time and it is important for the body to be provided with the best possible resources when it comes to controlling the population of the virus.

There are six classes that nutrients fall into.

Protein used for building muscle and boosting the immune system

Carbohydrates used for the production of energy

Fats are broken down into carbohydrates and used for energy

Vitamins used for the regulation of body processes

Minerals used for the regulation of body processes and maintenance of tissues

Water makes up over 70% of the bodys mass and is important for all aspects of life

If you are HIV positive it is important that you ensure that your body is provided with the nutrients it requires to keep the immune system function as well as possible. This would imply that you will require a diet that is higher in protein than an uninfected individual might require. Your system will also likely make use of more energy in fighting the virus and maintaining the immune system which implies that you will require more carbohydrates than prior to your infection. These are especially valid if you are underweight or if you are suffering with a high viral load or have been affected by opportunistic infections.

One of the most common side effects of an HIV infection is the loss of weight. Excessive weight loss is dangerous as your body will not have the stored resources to battle both the virus and the opportunistic infections that may affect the HIV positive individual. Some of the reasons for this weight loss are:

Change in taste perceptions that may make food taste bad

The virus and antiretroviral medication may inhibit the uptake of nutrients

Side effects such as nausea and vomiting may make retaining any food difficult

Fatigue caused by the virus and antiretroviral medications may make even the act of preparing food a challenge

It is possible to combat these problems to some extent. Here are some strategies to attempt:

When you do eat ensure that your meal is high in protein and carbohydrates

Eat simple, bland food to combat the bad taste and nausea

Make your meals easy and quick to prepare so that when you are fatigued you are still able to make yourself some food

Add supplements to your daily intake of food

If you are not certain that your body is getting the nutrients that it requires consult with a dietician and have them construct a special diet plan for you that is easy to prepare and high in carbohydrates and protein.

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by: Pedro Banbury

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