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Rachel
Stern, MS, RD, CNS, is a nutritionist for the North Jersey Community
Research Initiative in Newark, NJ. Previous positions include the Women's
Infectious Disease Clinic at the University of Medicine and Dentistry,
WIC, Head Start, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Columbia University Institute
of Reproduction, Research Corporation, and University of Wisconsin. Sharon
Ann Meyer, AS, AA, DTR, is the President of HIV ReSources, Inc., Editor-In-Chief
of the HIV Nutrition Update, Nutrition Editor for Numedx magazine and co-author
of HIV Medications Food Interactions
(And So Much More).
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Complementary
nutrition therapies for HIV/AIDS have come and gone over the course of
the epidemic, but L-carnitine (or levocarnitine) has endured as a popular
supplement. Early on, it was said to be an antiviral and T-cell booster.
As effective antiretroviral medications became available, carnitine’s use
in HIV-disease evolved. It remained popular, but primarily for protection
against or treatment of HIV-related neuropathy. And most recently
it’s been recommended as a therapy for abnormal fat metabolism and fat
deposition. Its use has also expanded among the general public, as
well as HIV-positive people, as a supplement to improve physical performance.
Although evidence of its effectiveness is mainly anecdotal testimonials,
supplemental carnitine is touted as important for people who want to keep
fit and maintain well-being and vitality.
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