Healthy eating when you have HIV
Content provided by Healthwise
Healthy eating when you have HIV
Eating a nutritious, balanced diet is an important part of treating HIV. Good nutrition can help your immune system stay strong, which in turn may help your body fight HIV. Knowing the best way to nourish your body will help keep it strong and allow your HIV medications to work effectively.
It is important to maintain lean muscle mass while fighting HIV. Maintaining a healthy weight can be a challenge because weight loss is common with HIV and is a side effect of some HIV medications. You may also have digestive problems associated with HIV or its treatment. Sometimes you just won't feel like eating.
Getting enough protein and calories may help your immune system fight the HIV infection and improve your overall health. Nutritional counseling has been shown to improve your health while living with HIV. Your health professional may periodically assess your diet after you are diagnosed with HIV.1 If you have trouble eating or maintaining your weight, a registered dietitian or your health professional can provide you with information to improve your diet.
References
Citations
Nerad J, et al. (2003). General nutrition management in patients infected with human immunodeficiency virus. Clinical Infectious Diseases, 36(Suppl 2): S52–S62.
Credits
| Author | Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS |
| Editor | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Peter Shalit, MD, PhD - Internal Medicine |
| Last Updated | June 6, 2007 |
| Last updated: | June 06, 2007 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS |
| Reviewed By: | Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine, Peter Shalit, MD, PhD - Internal Medicine |
| Editors: | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman |
© 1995-2007, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.
Search
Where Does it Hurt?
If you're experiencing aches and pains we can help you find answers. Find out what your symptoms mean for your health.
