World AIDS Day 2024: 3 Superfoods To Delay HIV Progression, As Per Dietitian's Recommendation

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a chronic retrovirus that can lead to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), the final stage of the disease. Although treatment is available for those living with HIV, maintaining a balanced diet can benefit both individuals with the virus and the general population, potentially slowing the progression of HIV. We spoke with Safia Livingston, a Dietician (MS RD) at MASSH (Minimal Access Smart Surgery Hospital), to gain insights into superfoods that can help delay the progression of HIV.

3 Superfoods To Delay HIV Progression

Safia Livingston says, "With HIV, the body is constantly overworked, the virus attacks the defence system in the body, thus causing the body to work harder and requires more nutrition and energy to fight back. Research shows that malnutrition accelerates the progression of HIV.  A nutrient-dense diet fortified with superfoods becomes a powerful tool to fight any opportunistic infections and slow the progression of HIV."

Safia Livingston recommends keeping the acronym ‘HIV’ in mind when planning a virus-fighting diet:

• High Protein: Protein is essential for building and maintaining muscle. It’s important to include protein in every meal and snack. Non-vegetarians can consume chicken, fish, and eggs, while vegetarians should incorporate foods like paneer, yogurt, beans, lentils, tofu, and nuts.
• Inflammation Fighters: HIV activates the immune system, leading to inflammation. To counter this, include anti-inflammatory foods that can provide additional support. Green leafy vegetables like spinach, kale, Bok choy, and mustard greens are key. Other beneficial produce includes broccoli, beetroot, cabbage, capsicum, tomatoes, blueberries, pomegranate, and pineapple. Omega-3-rich foods such as almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, and flax seeds are also helpful. Spices like turmeric and ginger are powerful inflammation reducers.
• Vitamin & Mineral Boosters: These nutrients are crucial for protecting the skin, lungs, and gut lining, and replenishing any deficiencies caused by medications or treatments. Iron, found in green leafy vegetables, millets, beans, and seeds, helps with overall health. Selenium, which boosts the immune system, can be found in millets, dairy, eggs, beans, and Brazil nuts. Zinc, important for immune function, is abundant in meat, legumes, nuts, seeds, and dairy.

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While no single food can slow HIV progression on its own, a well-balanced, nutrient-dense diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods, when consumed regularly, can make a significant difference.

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Food To Avoid For People With HIV

People with HIV should avoid the following types of foods:

• Foods that are high in salt

• Foods that are high in sugar

• Foods rich in saturated fats

• Raw eggs

• Undercooked or raw meats and seafood

• Dairy products and fruit juices

Since HIV weakens the immune system, individuals with the virus are at a higher risk of foodborne illnesses, which can be more severe and prolonged. Foodborne illnesses occur when germs contaminate food during preparation or consumption, leading to sickness or food poisoning.

In addition to maintaining a healthy diet, individuals with HIV must take extra precautions when handling food. Given that HIV can suppress the immune system, practising proper food hygiene and safety is essential to prevent additional infections.

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Credits: Freepik