HIV/AIDS

The immune system needs proper nutrition in order to function well, and the nutritional needs of people with HIV and AIDS are greater because the body has to work overtime to fight off opportunistic infections. A healthy diet and exercise are important for maintaining health and quality of life. According to the San Francisco AIDS Foundation, good nutrition has also been shown to reinforce the effects of treatment and aid in recovery.

Physicians recommend that patients with HIV or AIDS increase their intake of proteins, carbohydrates, and monounsaturated fats. Most nutrition experts recommend that protein should contribute about 15-20% of the total calories in a person's diet. Good sources of protein such as meat, fish, poultry, eggs, beans, nuts, seeds, and some dairy products can help build and maintain muscle mass. The complex carbohydrates contained in grains, vegetables, and fruits supply the body with “time-released” energy. Simple carbohydrates—or sugars—give you quick energy and can be found in fresh fruits. Limited amounts of monounsaturated, or "good" fats such as nuts, seeds, canola and olive oils, and fish can provide you with extra energy.

Most people living with HIV or AIDS face challenges in maintaining good nutrition. Poor appetite, fatigue, nausea, and other side effects of infections and medications can make it hard to eat well. Isopure Plus Nutritional Drink is an excellent source of 15 grams of ion-exchange whey protein isolate in a clear formula that tastes great and goes down easily.