Understanding how nutritional status can impact immune function can assist in establishing nutrition priorities.  Consuming adequate calories, protein, and fluids is vital to the immune system, and slowing the progression of HIV disease.  Learn all you can about nutrition, being careful not to act on nutrition misinformation, and start making changes now to maintain or improve your quality of life.

HIV/AIDS research has demonstrated an increased requirement for certain vitamins and minerals, as well as the beneficial effects of higher levels of antioxidants. Consult with a nutritionist who specializes in HIV/AIDS to ensure adequate intake of vitamins and minerals and to prevent potential toxicity’s.

Exercise is a key factor in preventing the progression of HIV disease.  Exercise, combined with good nutrition and medical care, can assist in maintaining or improving the immune system and greatly reducing tension and stress.  Of course, always check with your physician before beginning any exercise program.
 

Knowledge is power.  Learn all you can about HIV disease.  The more you know, the more prepared you are to make wise choices in care and treatment.  A healthy lifestyle is another choice you can make by getting adequate rest, good nutrition, and exercise.
 

Learn and practice safe food handling methods to avoid preventable foodborne illness. There are several basic rules to follow:
 

• Avoid raw or undercooked meat, fish, and dairy products.
• Keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold.
• “If in doubt, throw it out.”
• Thoroughly wash hands before eating or preparing foods.
• Thoroughly wash fruits and vegetables.
• Follow label instructions to “keep refrigerated” and “use by” a certain date.
• Drink bottled or distilled water, especially in restaurants.

Strategies for symptoms management are helpful in overcoming nutrition obstacles that often occur as a result of medication side-effects or are a result of the HIV virus itself.  In many cases, symptoms can be prevented by providing early intervention and routine follow-up.
 

Alternative treatments are those treatments that may enhance your overall well- being in addition to appropriate medical care.  Some of these therapies include:

• Meditation/stress reduction
• Herbal therapy
• Massage therapy
• Acupuncture

There are a multitude of community resources to assist in making your life easier and more fulfilling.  Check with your nutritionist or case manager for detailed information on topics from medical care to transportation to assistance with meals.
 

The Florida HIV/AIDS Nutrition Network is a nutrition advocate of the HIV community serving the public and health professionals through the promotion of timely, accurate nutrition information.