HIV AIDS patient nutrition

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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1] Associate Editors-in-Chief: Ujjwal Rastogi, MBBS [2]

Overview

People living with HIV/AIDS face increased challenges in maintaining proper nutrition. Despite developments in medical treatment, nutrition remains a key component in managing this condition. The challenges that those living with HIV/AIDS face can be the result of the viral infection itself or from the effects of anti-HIV therapy (HAART).

Some of the side effects from HAART that may affect how the body absorbs and utilizes nutrients include fatigue, nausea, and poor appetite. As well, the nutritional needs of people with HIV/AIDS are greater due to their immune system fighting off opportunistic infections that do not normally cause disease in people with healthy immune systems. Medication along with proper nutrition is a major component of maintaining good health and quality of life for people living with HIV/AIDS.

Nutritional need of the HIV/AIDS patient

Energy requirements

For people with HIV/AIDS, energy requirements often increase in order to maintain their regular body weight.. Monitoring caloric intake is important in ensuring that energy needs are met.

Classification

A classification system revised by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), categorizes HIV-infection into 3 clinical stages and addresses the suggested caloric requirements for each stage.

1. Clinical Category A: Asymptomatic HIV

This stage is characterized by Acute HIV. People in this category have estimated needs of 30-35 kcals/kg.

2. Clinical Category B: Symptomatic HIV

This stage is characterized by complications that arise from HIV symptoms. People in this category have estimated needs of 35-40 kcals/kg.

3. Clinical Category C: Presence of AIDS condition

This stage is characterized by having a T-cell count under 200, signaling the presence of an AIDS defining condition and/or an opportunistic infection. People in this category have estimated needs of 40-50 kcals/kg and are at an increased risk of malnourishment.

Multivitamins and supplementation

There is no consensus regarding the effects of multivitamins and nutrient supplementation on HIV positive individuals. This is partly due to a lack of strong scientific evidence that would support the supplementation of any particular micronutrient.