 Good
nutrition is crucial for a person living with HIV or AIDS. Eating
a healthy,
well-balanced diet is essential to maintain and build lean
muscle mass and maintain proper
weight. It will also help boost
your immune system, which may in turn protect you from opportunistic
infections. A well-balanced diet will include adequate amounts
of protein, complex carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and minerals.
In addition to learning about a healthy diet you may have concerns
about the side
effects of medications and symptoms of opportunistic infections
such as diarrhea, nausea, and loss of appetite. These side effects
and symptoms can be managed or significantly reduced by appropriate
dietary modifications.
Discussing your diet with a nutritionist or a physician is a good
first step. Nutrition counseling is available from GMHC and from
a variety of other sources. When selecting a nutrition counselor,
look for a Registered Dietitian who has HIV/AIDS experience and
is willing to work with you and your doctor.
Also take a look at our philosophy concerning
complementary therapies.
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