AIDS is a disease that affects almost every aspect of a person's life. Since people with AIDS have compromised immune systems, proper nutrition is essential for minimizing the risk of getting sick or developing an infection. People with AIDS may have increased nutritional requirements compared to the average person because their body is constantly working hard to fight the disease.
Calories
According to the World Health Organization, people with AIDS require more calories than those without AIDS. The World Health Organization (WHO) states that on average AIDS patients need an extra 10 percent calories above what others need simply to maintain their body weight. When symptoms are at their worst, the WHO states that the AIDS sufferer may require 20 to 30 percent more calories to help their bodies stay strong. For example, if the average adult without AIDS needs 2,000 calories, the average adult with AIDS could need as much as 2,600 calories or even more.
Fat
Dietary fat is important for AIDS patients because it gives them energy, according to the government's AIDS information website, AIDS.gov. While fat is essential for many of the body's processes and for helping a patient maintain their body weight, the World Health Organization states that AIDS patients do not need any more dietary fat than the average person. AIDS patients may have to supplement with a special fat called MCTs, or medium chain triglycerides, if they are having trouble digesting fats or have persistent diarrhea.
Protein
Many people know that protein builds muscles, but according to AIDS.gov, it also strengthens the immune system. The World Health Organization recommends that AIDS patients get about 12 to 15 percent of their calories from protein each day. While this is no greater than the recommendation for healthy individuals, the increased recommendation for calories also requires more protein.
Carbohydrates
According to the website AIDS.gov carbohydrates give you energy, which is essential for AIDS patients since they frequently have to deal with symptoms like fatigue and vomiting. The World Health Organization does not recommend that people with AIDS eat a greater amount of carbohydrates in their diet than compared to healthy individuals. Carbohydrates like whole grains, fruits and vegetables are the best choices for energy.
Vitamins and Minerals
In addition to the macronutrients, which include protein, carbohydrates and fat, people with AIDS need to make sure their intake of vitamins and minerals is adequate as well. The World Health Organization states that supplementing with additional nutrients such as B vitamins as well as vitamin C and vitamin E may improve the immune system of an AIDS patient.
