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HIV/AIDS and Nutrition: A Patient Educational Guide Pathophysiology of HIV/AIDS

This guide provides essential information on HIV/AIDS, including its pathophysiology, symptoms, and nutritional considerations for patients. It emphasizes the importance of a high-protein diet and specific foods to include or avoid to support immune health while on medication. Resources for further information on evidence-based diets and HIV/AIDS are also provided.

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Gloria nekoye
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9 views3 pages

HIV/AIDS and Nutrition: A Patient Educational Guide Pathophysiology of HIV/AIDS

This guide provides essential information on HIV/AIDS, including its pathophysiology, symptoms, and nutritional considerations for patients. It emphasizes the importance of a high-protein diet and specific foods to include or avoid to support immune health while on medication. Resources for further information on evidence-based diets and HIV/AIDS are also provided.

Uploaded by

Gloria nekoye
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

HIV/AIDS and Nutrition: A Patient Educational Guide

Pathophysiology of HIV/AIDS

HIV “(Human Immunodeficiency Virus)” attacks the body's defense mechanisms, particularly

the CD4 cells, better known as T-helper cells, which are responsible for fighting off an infection

(Siahaan et al., 2024). It is transmitted via blood, breast milk, semen, and vaginal fluids. It can be

passed through unprotected sex, blood transfusions, sharing needles, or from mother to child.

The HIV infection, over time, leads to the destruction of CD4 cells, resulting in the weakening of

the immune system and the full-blown disease of AIDS “(Acquired Immunodeficiency

Syndrome)”.

“If left untreated, HIV weakens the body's ability to fight opportunistic infections and certain

types of cancers.”

Symptoms

Persistent fever and night sweats.

Chronic fatigue and weight loss.

Swollen lymph nodes.

Recurrent infections or illnesses.

Medications and Nutritional Considerations

1. Dolutegravir (Tivicay)

 Mechanism of Action: “Inhibits integrase enzyme, preventing HIV DNA from integrating

into the host genome.”


Nutritional Considerations:

 Take with or without food.

 Avoid high-calcium or high-iron foods (e.g., dairy, spinach) close to medication time;

they can reduce absorption.

 Ensure a balanced diet to support immune health.

2. “Emtricitabine/Tenofovir (Truvada)- Inhibits reverse transcriptase, preventing HIV

replication.”

 Take with a meal to minimize gastrointestinal side effects.

 Maintain adequate hydration.

 Avoid alcohol, as it can exacerbate liver stress.

Evidence-Based Diet for HIV/AIDS

 High-Protein Diet

 A high-protein diet helps combat muscle wasting, a common issue in HIV patients, and

supports immune health.

Three Foods to Include

 Lean meats (chicken, turkey): Rich in protein, supports muscle repair and immune

function.

 Beans and lentils: High in protein and fiber, supports gut health.

 Eggs: Provide high-quality protein and essential nutrients like B vitamins.

Three Foods to Avoid


 Processed foods (chips, sugary snacks): Increase inflammation and provide low

nutritional value.

 “Raw or undercooked eggs, meat, and seafood: Increase the risk of foodborne illnesses

due to weakened immunity.”

 Excess alcohol: Impairs liver function and interacts negatively with medications.

Patient Resources

 On Evidence-Based Diets

 Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics: [Link]

On HIV/AIDS

 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): [Link]/hiv

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