HIV care all about nutrition? Expert lists the best and worst dietary choices for AIDS patients

New Delhi: While antiretroviral therapy (ART) has revolutionized HIV management, a holistic approach that includes optimal nutrition and healthy lifestyle choices remains pivotal in ensuring a longer, healthier life for individuals living with HIV. A balanced diet, coupled with regular physical activity, not only supports the immune system but also mitigates the side effects of medications, reduces complications, and significantly enhances overall well-being.

Dr Neha Gupta, Infectious Disease Specialist, Founder NG Swastha & Senior Consultant -Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram, India, explained why nutrition is important for HIV patients.

Why Nutrition is Essential for People Living with HIV

1. Strengthening the Immune System: HIV directly impacts the immune system, making proper nutrition a cornerstone in bolstering the body’s defenses. Nutrient-rich foods supply the essential building blocks to fight infections effectively.
2. Managing Weight Fluctuations: HIV and its treatments may lead to unintended weight gain. A tailored, balanced diet helps maintain an optimal weight, reducing risks of comorbidities like cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
3. Enhancing Medication Efficacy: ART absorption and effectiveness are influenced by nutrition. Proper dietary choices can improve the bioavailability of medications, ensuring their maximum benefit. With Dolutegravir or Bictegravir-based therapy, milk, milk products, calcium & magnesium should be avoided for 1 hour before & 2 hours later. Taking these food products with medications may impair their absorption
4. Reducing Side Effects: ART-related side effects such as bone and kidney toxicity, nausea, diarrhoea, and fatigue can be alleviated with appropriate dietary adjustments, improving adherence to treatment regimens. Regular follow-up with infectious diseases specialists can help in reducing these side effects and may help in preventing complications like fractures, or chronic kidney disease.

Core Nutritional Guidelines for Individuals with HIV

1. Customised Caloric Intake: Energy requirements vary based on the individual’s health status, stage of infection, and activity levels. Personalised meal planning by a dietitian ensures adequate caloric intake.
2. High-Quality Proteins: Proteins are vital for immune repair and muscle health. Include lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy, beans, and lentils in daily meals. The ideal requirement is 0.8 -1 mg per kg per day.
3. Complex Carbohydrates: Whole grains, fresh fruits, and vegetables provide sustained energy while maintaining stable blood sugar levels. Freshly cut fruits & vegetables are preferred, 5 servings of different fruits are ideal which will provide vitamins, minerals & antioxidants.
4. Healthy Fats: Essential fatty acids, found in sources like avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil, support cellular health and hormone balance.
5. Vitamins and Minerals: Micronutrients such as vitamins A, C, D, E, and zinc are crucial for immune modulation and recovery. Prioritize colourful fruits, vegetables, fortified foods, and supplements when necessary. Overnight-soaked almonds, walnuts, and chia seeds are rich sources.

Beyond Diet: The Role of Active Living in HIV Management

1. Complementing nutrition with regular physical activity offers far-reaching benefits, including 30 mins- 1 hour of physical activity is essential.
2. Boosting energy levels for daily tasks.
3. Enhancing mood and mental health by reducing stress and anxiety.
4. Preventing muscle loss and strengthening bones.
5. Lowering risks of chronic diseases like diabetes, hypertension, and osteoporosis.
6. Activities such as walking, yoga, meditation, strength training, or cycling—tailored to the individual’s fitness level—can significantly improve health outcomes.

Partnering with Healthcare Providers

Creating a sustainable lifestyle plan involves collaboration with healthcare professionals. A registered dietitian or an infectious disease specialist can:

1. Evaluate unique nutritional needs.
2. Address food-drug interactions.
3. Develop strategies for managing treatment side effects.
4. Vaccination for the prevention of infections like Influenza, Pneumonia, shingles / Herpes zoster, Typhoid, and Tdap can be considered.

The Impact of Holistic HIV Management

By embracing balanced nutrition, physical activity, and regular medical consultations, individuals living with HIV can:

1. Strengthen their immune system.
2. Minimise complications and comorbidities.
3. Improve their quality of life and longevity.
4. HIV management is more than just medication—it’s a commitment to a healthy life. Let’s empower individuals with HIV to prioritise their well-being, live with resilience, and redefine health.