Anyone can get food borne illnesses, but people living with HIV are more susceptible, and are in more danger from these ailments. This is simply due to the fact that HIV affects the cells in the immune system. This is what makes the body vulnerable to bacteria in food. It should be noted that while an HIV diagnosis is no longer considered a death sentence, persons with the virus still need to take special care to limit their risk of bacterial infections.
Persons living with HIV should follow certain guidelines when it comes to choosing, handling and preparing food. Some of these are:
• Keep Kitchen surfaces clean
• Be sure to wash your hands after using the bathroom, touching pets or other people, handling garbage, or touching food known to carry bacteria such as raw meat and eggs
• Throw away food that has gone beyond the expiration date, even if it smells good
• Ensure that the refrigerator is working correctly in order to prevent spoilage
• Read food labels before buying, paying attention to potential allergens
• Wash all fruits and vegetable properly before eating
The diet of persons living with HIV does not necessarily have to be special, but it should contain food from all the major food groups. This is important so as to help them build their immune system which is weakened by the virus and so protect them against so-called opportunistic diseases. By eating from all food groups, they are ensured of consuming minerals and nutrients necessary to maintain health.
A lot of research has been done over the years to create new HIV drugs and improve the quality of life of patients. In addition, dietary changes which incorporate more of certain nutrient are essential to the patient’s health and overall wellbeing. Some of these include:
Vitamin and mineral Supplements
Given the fact that vitamins and minerals are so important to the body’s regulatory functions, it is easy to see their importance to compromised immune system. Without adequate amounts of certain nutrients, seemingly healthy people can eventually become ill and die. It is difficult to get all the necessary nutrients from food, so an HIV patient must take supplements not only to protect the immune system, but also for overall health.
When it comes to the recommended amounts of nutrients that should be consumed, patients should be guided by their doctor. They can also choose advice from a nutritionist with experience in dealing with the dietary needs of those with HIV.
In addition to supplements foods form the following groups provide the body with needed vitamins and minerals as well:
• Zinc
This is an important mineral for maintaining a healthy immune system. In fact, the immune system can be suppressed by low zinc levels. Good sources include chicken, cucumber, eggs and all-bran cereal
• Selenium
Research has shown that selenium has a beneficial effect on the health of HIV patients. It is particularly important in the health of cells. It can be found in animal products, seafood and Brazil nuts among others.
• B Vitamins
It is believed that B vitamins have the potential to slow the growth of the disease. They can be found in mustard greens, romaine lettuce, lentils, bell peppers, calf’s liver, broccoli and beets.
• Vitamin D
This is an essential nutrient for calcium absorption. It is also important for the health of HIV patients. Fortified milk and cereal can also help provide part of the daily Vitamin D requirement. While it can be found in oily fish and shrimp, typically the concentrations are not high enough to provide much benefit.
A great source of Vitamin D is also available from sun exposure, just be sure to take proper sun protection measures before venturing out. It is sometimes recommended to get additional vitamin D in supplement form.
Antioxidants
Antioxidants are important in negating the effects of free radicals which are produced by normal cell function. For an HIV patient, free radical production may be elevated, hence the need for higher levels of antioxidants. Some good food sources of this essential nutrient include small red beans, blueberries, prunes, pinto beans, cranberries and strawberries.
While medical advancements have done much to improve the lives of HIV patients, these natural ways to strengthen the immune system are more than worth their weight in gold. It may seem obvious to some that the nutrients mentioned above are required for good health, but for those living with HIV or any sick person they are vital. Following the prescribed drug regimen and getting enough of these healthy foods can help those affected lead healthier lives.
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