| Body Changes and HIV
GMHC'S Nutrition & Wellness Program
WHAT IS LIPODYSTROPHY?
Lipodystrophy or "Lipo" for short, refers to body shape changes
that sometimes happen with HIV. If you have lipodystrophy, you may
notice that you have gained fat, especially in the belly, back of
neck, or both.
WHAT IS LIPOATROPHY?
Fat loss with HIV is sometimes called "lipoatrophy". With lipoatrophy,
you may experience a loss of fat in the face, arms or legs. This
is sometimes referred to as "wasting" but it is not caused by a
loss of muscle; it is fat which is lost.
You may also experience changes in the way your body deals with
cholesterol, fat or sugar so it's important to keep track of how
your body is changing and discuss it with your health care provider.
WHERE CAN YOU SEE SYPMTOMS OF FAT ACCUMULATION?
- in the belly
- behind the neck (also called buffalo hump or dorso-cervical
fat pad)
- in small lumps under the skin (called lipomas)
- around the chin (sometimes called a horse collar)
- in the breasts of both men and women
WHERE CAN YOU SEE SYMPTOMS OF FAT LOSS?
- the arms and legs
- in the face (which may lead to the look of hollow temples or
sunken cheeks)
WHAT CAUSES LIPO?
Researchers still don't know exactly what causes body shape changes
with HIV. Researchers think these changes are probably related to:
- the use of some medications
- the amount of time you have been taking antiretroviral drugs
- older age
- body mass index (BMI) or changes in BMI. (BMI is a ratio of
your height to your weight)
- duration of HIV infection
- immune function and T cell count
- gender (women are more likely to accumulate fat whereas men
are more likely to lose fat)
WHAT PROBLEMS ARE LINKED WITH BODY CHANGES?
- Metabolic Changes: some people with lipo also
develop high levels of cholesterol, triglycerides (fat) or glucose
(sugar) in their blood. You can also develop damage to the mitochondria
in your cells (that's the part of the cell that helps your body
make energy).
- Emotional Changes: changes in body shape can
be understandably distressing. If you have changes, you may experience
anxiety, stress or a change in the way you feel about your body.
An important note: Even if you are having metabolic
or emotional symptoms, these changes do not mean that you are in
immediate danger of serious illness. Always talk to your health
care professional if you are concerned.
WHAT TO DO ABOUT IT?
- Adopting a healthy diet and lifestyle is key to dealing with
body changes. That means taking care of your diet and making sure
that you get enough physical activity.
- Having emotional support to deal with lifestyle changes, and
body changes are important too.
- Some people have tried various cosmetic surgery procedures such
as liposuction or cheek implants to deal with body changes. Unfortunately,
these procedures can be very expensive, have health risks and
the results may only be temporary.
- Your doctor might suggest medication to help deal with increased
cholesterol, fat or sugar in your blood.
- Staying physically active is very important for maintaining
lean body mass (muscle). Exercise can also help you lose fat,
maintain bone strength and contribute to your overall health.
Both aerobic and strength training exercises are vital to your
health.
NUTRITIONAL GOALS
- Eat less fatty foods: Choose leaner meats,
including fish and poultry more often. Chose low fat or fat-free
dairy products. Avoid highly processed snack foods that are loaded
with fat and salt.
- Load up on fruits and vegetables: Aim for at
least 5 servings of fruits and vegetables each day to help boost
your immune system and to provide lots of nutrients and fiber.
- Go for fiber: Choose whole grain breads and
cereals, brown rice, beans and other high fiber foods.
- Get up and move: Both aerobic and strength
building activities are vital for good health and can help manage
the symptoms of body changes.
SO WHAT'S THE BOTTOM LINE?
- Talk to your health care provider about lipodystrophy, lipoatrophy
or any changes in body weight, body shape or symptoms that you
are having.
- Your best bet is to eat a diet low in fat and high in nutrients
and fiber.
- Maintain a reasonable body weight and try to increase your physical
activity to maintain your body's muscles and to stay strong.
Revised 4/03
© 2003 Gay Men's Health Crisis |
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