If you are HIV positive a good diet is essential to adequately slow down the disease progression.
A good diet together with ARV treatment will improve your immune system and prevent other illnesses.
A good diet will assist in:
– Adding important nutrients and vitamins
– Preventing the loss of muscle in your body
– Improving your immune system
– Keep your weight stable
– Give you strength to cope with stress and treatment
Eat food from the five food groups. Add lots of vegetables and fruit to your diet which have vitamins that help to fight against infection. Include brightly coloured veggies and eat a variety of them.
Carbohydrates are very important especially as they are inexpensive and beneficial for those that are underweight. Bread and pap is fortified with vitamins. If you are overweight or diabetic limit your portions of carbohydrates.
Meat and dairy products have good proteins within them which are essential for building strong muscles. Oily fish such as sardines, pilchards are high in omegas 3 fatty acids. You may also add eggs, spinach and nuts in your diet.
Dried beans and peanuts are relatively cheap and also contain good amount of protein and should be included in the diet. Don’t add extra salt in your food, rather use herbs. Stay clear of fried, processed, sugary and fatty foods. Traditional foods such a tripe, morogo, liver, brain , chicken feet and head are also nutritious.
Drink plenty of clean water. All fruit and vegetables should be washed thoroughly before consuming. When you do have the strength, exercising is beneficial.
If you do drink alcohol, drink in moderation as alcohol dehydrates the body as well as assists in losing important vitamins. It is best however to stay clear of alcohol as mixing treatment and alcohol is not recommended.
Usually people fall ill if they drink and they are on ARV treatment. Sticking to your treatment is more important than an alcoholic drink. Do not smoke or limit the amount of cigarettes if you do.
Nutrition is very important in managing HIV, so if you don’t have an appetite, rather eat small portions or snack on healthy foods such as nuts, fruit, yoghurt, rooibos tea and soups. Exercise by doing household chores, dancing and walking, which are all important and good for you.
What else do you think should be included in the diet of an HIV positive person?
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