The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), is a virus that causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 42,655 new cases of HIV/AIDS were diagnosed in 2007 in 33 states with confidential reporting systems. HIV damages the immune system and reduces the body's ability to fight toxins, which increases risk for numerous health problems. In addition to medical treatments, a healthy diet may improve wellness and prevent complications of HIV.
Function
While dietary measures cannot cure HIV, they can improve wellness and quality of life of those affected. According to the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), a healthy diet is vital toward maintaining immune system support, energy and strength throughout a person's life. It may also help prevent infections and other potential complications of HIV, reduce the progression of the illness, prevent or alleviate side effects of medical treatments and help the body better utilize medications.
Essential Nutrients
A healthy diet includes foods from all essential nutrient groups. HHS suggests sufficient intake of protein for muscle growth and immune system strength, carbohydrates for energy, fat for additional energy and nutrient absorption, vitamins and minerals for support of body processes, and water, which supports cell shape and a platform for body processes to take place. Fruits and vegetables provide ample antioxidants (disease-fighting nutrients), water and dietary fiber, which supports digestive wellness.
Basic Guidelines
While individuals' specific dietary needs vary, a diet based on healthy foods consumed in appropriate balance is suggested for people with HIV. According to dietary experts at Tufts University, a healthy diet for people with HIV includes five to six servings of colorful vegetables and fruits daily and regular intake of whole grains, lean protein and healthy fats. Simple sugars, such as those found in candy and soft drinks, should be limited or avoided. At least one serving of nuts, seeds or legumes daily is also suggested. Meals should contain complex carbohydrates, lean protein and unsaturated fat.
Optimum Foods
Within each nutrient group, those richest in nutrients and lowest in added sugars and saturated fats may provide most benefits for people with HIV. Tufts University recommends a variety of fresh, colorful fruits and vegetables for broadest nutritional benefits and whole grains over processed grains at least 50 percent of the time. Examples of nutrient-rich whole grains include whole wheat, spelt, oats, barley, long-grain rice, quinoa and popcorn. Ideal protein sources include skinless-white meat poultry, fish, extra-lean beef and low-fat dairy products. Unsaturated fats stem from foods such as olive oil, canola oil, safflower oil, fatty fish, nuts, seeds, avocado and nut butters.
Additional Suggestions
In addition to healthy foods, lifestyle measures, such as regular exercise and food safety precautions, may support wellness in people with HIV. The Mayo Clinic suggests that people with HIV aim for the healthiest possible diet while avoiding foods that increase risk of infection, such as unpasteurized dairy products, raw seafood/sushi, raw eggs and undercooked meat. Purified water may also prevent harmful bacteria from entering a person's body. Appropriate sleep, relaxation and exercise can promote wellness and reduce symptoms of depression that may stem from HIV. Doctor's guidance is suggested for optimum wellness and dietary results.
