If you have tested positive for HIV or been diagnosed with AIDS, it is essential that you maintain a high degree of immune system function. Proper nutrition can help you to do just that. According to Phyllis Balch in her book "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," anyone with HIV or AIDS can make a major contribution to his survival and quality of life by following an immune-enhancing nutritional program.
Get Enough Protein
Many people with HIV and AIDS have problems with malabsorption and they therefore require higher than normal amounts of all nutrients. According to the Canadian School of Natural Nutrition, you should ensure that you are consuming adequate amounts of protein. Protein is required to prevent muscle wasting and to form the antibodies and immunoglobulin that are necessary to support the immune system. Protein is also needed to build and repair your body tissue.
Calculating Your Protein Needs
Ideally, you should consume between 1.7 and 2.2 g of protein per pound of body weight. To help you to meet this intake, Balch recommends consuming protein supplements such as whey protein or a free-form amino acid complex.
Eat a Raw, Whole-foods Diet
Balch suggests consuming a 75 percent raw food diet; organic when possible. Raw is important because cooking foods depletes them of their vital enzymes. Organic is recommended to avoid pesticides which may cause further damage to your immune system. Your diet should be high in vegetables and fruits, with the rest of your diet composed mainly of beans, lentils, seeds, nuts, whole grains, brown rice and millet.
Super Fruits
According to Balch, bananas, berries, peaches and melons are some of the best fruits to consume. Unripened papaya and pineapple are also suggested because they contain proteolytic enzymes which are crucial for the proper digestion and assimilation of nutrients.
Super Vegetables
A diet rich in onions, garlic and cruciferous vegetables, including broccoli, cabbage, brussles sprouts and cauliflower is beneficial. Balch says to eat deep-orange vegetables such as carrots, yams, squash and pumpkin, because they contain beta-carotene, a well-known immune-boosting vitamin.
Eliminate Non-nutritious Foods
Water is also very important and you should drink at least 8 cups of filtered, distilled or spring water daily, even if you are not thirsty. Adequate fluid is necessary to flush out toxins from your body, says Balch. Eliminate cola, processed foods, anything with colorings or preservatives, saturated fats, salt, sugar, white flour and caffeine. These foods are nutrient devoid and will put an unnecessary strain on your body. Also, many people with HIV and AIDS lose their appetites, and consuming these foods may leave less room for the important, nutrient-dense whole foods.
Take an Antioxidant Supplement
CSNN recommends taking a mixed antioxidant supplement, to counter the oxidative stress and damage on the cellular system that the HIV infection causes. For maximum effectiveness, CSNN recommends choosing a supplement that contains a blend of vitamin C, E, selenium, glutathione and alpha-lipoic acid.
References
- "The Canadian School of Natural Nutrition"; Pathology and Nutrition; 2008
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing 3rd edition"; Phyllis Balch; 2003
- Albion Monitor News; "Pesticides Attack Immune System"; Jim Lobe; 1996
