There are several ways that proper nutrition can help HIV-positive people remain healthy:
Fighting HIV: The ongoing presence of the virus means that the immune system must always be providing the immune cells and chemicals required to fight it. Since those cells and chemicals are created from nutrients, a steady supply is a must for the body's contribution to viral control.
Protecting the body: Any damage to the body caused by HIV or AIDS-related infections—and by the body's immune response to the infection—must be repaired. Nutrients are the actual building materials with which the body creates and repairs itself, so there is an ongoing need for those materials.
Improving quality of life: Good nutrition is a must for feeling well. Optimal levels of nutrients are required for good energy and overall well-being, and for the prevention or the management of the many symptoms that nutrient deficiencies can cause (e.g., fatigue, appetite loss, skin problems, weight loss, mental changes [like memory problems or difficulty concentrating], nerve damage, muscle cramps, depression, anxiety, and many others). In addition, the presence of adequate levels of certain nutrients may actually help prevent and help reverse certain drug side effects. Thus, nutrients are an important tool for helping people to feel better and maintain a higher quality of life.
Managing coinfections: Many HIV-positive people also have other chronic infections to deal with, including hepatitis C and/or hepatitis B. For people with HIV and hepatitis coinfection all of the above is doubled in importance since the body must handle more than one chronic infection, and has a particular need to support the liver, and prevent it from being damaged.
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