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Last Updated: Aug 28, 2009

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Vitamins and Minerals for Better HIV Management By Jason Hachkowski Feb 12, 2009

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Vitamins and minerals are present in the foods we eat, and in even greater quantities in whole foods which are not as processed as pre-packaged, and canned foods. The more natural the food source, the greater the levels of vitamins and minerals, or micronutrients. Micronutrients are important to our bodies as they are required only in small amounts, hence the name micronutrients.

Every function of our body requires micronutrients. This requirement is on a cellular level, with different cells requiring different types. Micronutrients help the body to regulate metabolism, release energy from foods, carry oxygen to cells (iron), help develop strong bones and teeth, improve immune system functioning, and to act as antioxidants. The human body requires micronutrients for nearly all of its essential functions, so how do you know if you are receiving enough of them?

There is no single plant or animal which contains all of the vitamins and minerals the body requires. This is why for decades the medical community has been preaching the benefits of a well balanced diet. Individuals who rely on a single food source are actually damaging their metabolic balance. It is therefore even more important for those with HIV/AIDS to ensure that they eat a balanced, healthy diet.

HIV positive people may not be able to keep their micronutrient needs in check without the addition of supplements. Larger amounts of vitamins and minerals may be required to stay healthy because the immune system is working harder to fight off the HIV virus and other opportunistic infections. HIV medicine, stress, malnutrition, and digestive problems can all affect micronutrient needs. Even if you are eating very well, experts tend to agree that with HIV/AIDS, it will be hard to get all of the vitamins and minerals you will need. Supplementing your diet with vitamins and minerals can be a very helpful strategy in HIV management, but you should always discuss with your health care practitioner before starting any supplements.

Not all vitamins and minerals are beneficial for people living with HIV/AIDS. Before starting any supplements, consult with your physician. The below listing is a overview of some vitamins and minerals which may be of use to you in your treatment regimen.

Multivitamins with minerals: One a day multivitamins generally help prevent or correct vitamin deficiencies. People with hepatitis may need to take a multivitamin which does not contain any iron.

Antioxidants: Antioxidants are very popular these days, and are being recommended for whatever ails you. Do not believe all that they are being touted as a cure for. Antioxidants protect the cells, including immune system cells from damage. Smokers and people with HIV/AIDS generally should need more antioxidants. The most common ones are vitamins C and E.

B Complex: Vitamin B is present in multivitamins. For the general population, the amount of vitamin B found in multivitamins is probably enough for most people. However, people with AIDS who are on antiretroviral therapy, who have been sick, who use drugs/alcohol, or who are malnourished should take B complex.

Calcium: Calcium is essential for strong bones and teeth. Some of the side effects of antiretrovirals (ARV) are similar to that of old age.

Vitamin D: This micronutrient is necessary to absorb and use calcium properly.

Vitamin B12: This vitamin is taken as a shot, or as a nasal spray. Vitamin B12 may help people with HIV/AIDS with neuropathy, decreased mental functioning, diarrhea, and malabsorption. Please speak with your doctor if you feel that you could benefit from vitamin B12.

Selenium: Another powerful antioxidant for the immune system which is typically taken in 100-200 mcg doses. However, do not over-use the selenium! It is toxic at doses approach 700 mcg.

Zinc: Zinc is an important micronutrient for immune system functions. Zinc supplements should not be greater than 50 mg per day in total, as too much will actually weaken your immune system.

Glutamine: This is not a vitamin, but rather an amino acid which can help heal the intestines and decrease diarrhea.

It is very important to note that the information contained here is not a self-treatment guide! This is knowledge which can help to empower you to make informed health care decisions with your doctor. The fact is that taking vitamins can also harm you. Too much vitamins can lead to problems like diarrhea, kidney stones, vomiting, liver toxicity, and much more. Always discuss with your doctor to find the right mix for your health care needs.

 

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This article has been prepared by the staff at AIDS-Drugs-Online.com. HIV/AIDS treatments are as individual as the person who is taking them. Please always consult your doctor for all health treatment plans. To save more money on your HIV/AIDS treatments, please visit: www.aids-drugs-online.com

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