Nutrition & HIV

Nutrition is an important part of our lives, whether or not we have HIV. It doesn’t mean that just because you have HIV you needn’t bother about it. The age-old saying, “You are what you eat,” makes a lot of sense.

Eating a balanced diet gives you most of the vitamins, minerals, proteins, carbohydrates and fats your body requires. In some cases, eating well manages side effects as well. In this section, you will find some frequently asked questions about the role nutrition plays in a person with HIV.

Is there any food that can fight HIV?
No. There is no magic food that can do that.

Are there special foods that are better for patients with HIV?
It’s hard to recommend due to the needs of each individual and stage in the therapy.

So what should I eat?
A balanced diet.

What is a balanced diet?
A balanced diet is one that includes the following:
Proteins – from eggs, cheese, milk, yoghurt, chicken, tofu, fish etc. These also include vitamins and minerals especially iron and vitamin B12 from meat.
Fats – there are good and bad fats. Good fats come from olive, peanut and vegetable oil. Bad fats are usually found in fatty meats, butter and cream and too much of these can lead to heart disease.
Vitamins & Minerals – a daily intake of fresh foods like lots of fruits and vegetables should be sufficient. As far as possible, don’t overcook your vegetables. Try stir-frying or steaming.
Carbohydrates – starchy foods like rice, bread, pasta, cereals, potatoes, yams, noodles and grains.
Remember, these are general guidelines so talk to your doctor and dietician for your specific needs.

Can you tell me the things I should consider when I talk to the doctor and dietician?
Yes, here are a few areas you should let them know:
· Body weight
· Your state of health
· Your lifestyle-do you exercise, smoke, drink alcohol or take illicit drugs
· Do you eat at home or out
· Side effects
· Your viral load and CD4 cell count
· The medications you are on now
· Any infections you have had or have
· If you are pregnant, let them know

Is it advisable to take vitamin and mineral supplements?
A multivitamin to supplement a good balanced diet is recommended by most doctors. Ask your doctor what’s best for you.

Will it help boost my health if I take extra large doses of vitamins and minerals?
No. Recent research suggests that large doses can sometimes be harmful, especially with the HIV medications you are taking. Again check with your doctor about the right dosage for you.

Can I take traditional herbal remedies?
It is best to let your doctor know what you are taking so he/she can make sure that it doesn’t interfere with the HIV medications you are taking.

How do I avoid food poisoning?
Food poisoning is common among people with low immune systems and it’s important that you follow the general guidelines below.
· cook all meat, fish and chicken until well done
· Avoid raw foods like Sashimi etc
· Try not to reheat meat that’s been stored in the fridge for more than a day
· Wash all fruits and vegetables properly
· Avoid too much canned and preserved food
· If you’re eating out, avoid unhygienic places
· Boil all water that you use for cooking food and drinking
· Fix a water filter to your tap (change the filter regularly as filter used for too long carry bacteria)
· Don’t take raw or half boiled eggs.

Can I take alcohol?
It’s best if you don’t. But if you can’t stop completely or avoid it, moderation is the key world to remember.

What is moderate intake of alcohol?
2 glasses a day but you must have 2 alcohol-free days a week.

What are the risks of drinking alcohol excessively?
It can affect your immune system and may slow down recovery from infection. Heavy drinking can also damage your liver and has been linked to Hepatitis. People who drink heavily very often neglect their diet and this is something someone with HIV shouldn’t do. Finally, heavy drinking can also lead to missed doses of your HIV medications and vomiting which causes more complications.

Are there any infections where alcohol is not allowed?
If you have Hepatitis B or C.

Tips on how to eat when you are ill.
People with HIV are prone to a multitude of infections due to a weakened immune system. Here are some tips on what you can eat and how to cope when you are ill.
· Have food stocked at home and by your bedside if you are too tired to get out of bed.
· Snacking on small meals rather than having 3 main meals may be easier and less tiring to prepare.
· Have fresh juices without ice.
· Call on friends and family to bring food over.
· Have the numbers of home delivery caterers so you can have meals delivered to you.
· If you have difficulty chewing and swallowing, try liquidizing your food or eating porridge.
· If you have sores or inflammation in the mouth, avoid spicy, acidic, salty or very hot food. Again liquidized food and soups may be a less painful alternative.
· If you don’t have an appetite to eat, are experiencing severe loss of weight or pain when swallowing, talking to your doctor immediately.