HIV is associated with a higher level of free radicals that damage the body. Medications used to treat HIV also interfere with vitamin absorption. As a result, people with HIV need extra vitamins to repair and heal cells. According to studies published in "Epidemiology," "Journal of Nutrition" and "Vitamins and Hormones," vitamin supplements appear to slow the progression of the disease and are a good low-cost intervention. The University of California maintains that the best way to get vitamins is through a healthy diet, but individuals with HIV may also benefit from vitamins in pill or concentrate form.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is an antioxidant that supports skin, lung and stomach health. The best way to get vitamin A is through foods such as liver, eggs, milk and dark green, orange, yellow and red vegetables and fruits like sweet potatoes, leafy greens, squash, carrots and mango. Vitamin A can be toxic in high doses, so consult a physician prior to taking supplements.
B Vitamins
Thiamin (B1), niacin (B3), folic acid, cobalamin (B12) and riboflavin (B2) are all B vitamins that keep the nervous system healthy and support immunity. The best sources for B vitamins are meat, fish, chicken, grains, nuts, green leafy vegetables, avocado and watermelon. B vitamins can be supplemented in a multivitamin or a B-complex vitamin.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is an antioxidant that protects the body from infection and promotes healing, which is important because HIV impairs the immune system. Citrus fruits, tomatoes, bell peppers and potatoes are all rich in vitamin C.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin and antioxidant that protects cells and prevents infection. Most of the vitamin E in the American diet comes from vegetable oils. Other sources of vitamin E are green leafy vegetables and nuts. Be aware that fat-soluble vitamins like vitamins E, A, D and K are stored in the body for long periods of time and mega doses can be toxic.
Iron
Iron deficiency can cause anemia which is characterized by weakness, decreased immunity and changes in cognition. Red meat, chicken, liver, eggs, green leafy vegetables, whole grains, dried fruit and beans are the best dietary sources of iron. The University of California recommends limiting iron intake to 45 mg a day; too much iron can increase bacterial activity which can further the progression of HIV.
Selenium and Zinc
Selenium and zinc are minerals that keep the immune system healthy. Whole grains, meat, fish, poultry, eggs, peanut butter and nuts all contain selenium. The best sources of zinc are meat, fish, poultry, nuts, milk and dairy products. The New Mexico AIDS InfoNet recommends taking a trace element supplement that includes iron, selenium and zinc.
References
- "Epidemiology"; Vitamins in HIV Disease Progression and Vertical Transmission; W.W. Fawzi, D.J. Hunter; July 1998
- "Journal of Nutrition"; Studies of Vitamins and Minerals and HIV Transmission and Disease Progression; W. Fawzi, et al.; April 2005
- New Mexico AIDS InfoNet: Vitamins and Minerals
- University of California HIV InSite: Diet and Nutrition
- "Vitamins and Hormones"; Effects of Vitamins, Including Vitamin A, on HIV/AIDS Patients; S. Mehta, W. Fawzi; 2007
