Nutrition and HIV/AIDS: A Training Manual - Linkages Project

Rationale, Cont.Importance of ManagingSymptoms at All Times• Rapid multiplication of the virus depletes thehost of nutrients and increases vulnerability toinfections.• Acting promptly and efficiently at the onset ofsymptoms is critical to strengthen the immunesystem and reduce the severity of infections.• Nutritional repercussions and responses vary asthe disease progresses.Goals• Prevent malnutrition• Improve health and nutritional status• Slow the progression of the diseaseImportance ofGood Nutrition• Before contracting HIV, reduces the likelihoodof the virus rapidly weakening the immunesystem• Has the greatest impact at the beginning stagesof HIV infection because it strengthens theimmune system and reduces vulnerability toopportunistic infections• Reduces the severity of infections, contributesto weight gain, and prevents wasting.Adequate Nutritionfor PLWHA• Prevents malnutrition and wasting• Achieves and maintains optimal body weight andstrength• Enhances the body’s ability to fight opportunisticinfections• May help delay progression of the disease• Improves the effectiveness of drug treatments• Improves quality of lifeSymptomsand Nutritional StatusSymptoms such as loss of appetite, tastechanges,fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, oralhrush, anemia, bloating, and heartburn maynegatively affect nutritional status because of• Reduced food intake• Poor nutrient absorption• Increased nutrient needs