What are three diet therapy considerations that must be made for people living with HIV/AIDS?

What are three diet therapy considerations that must be made for people living with HIV/AIDS?

Having a healthy diet and nutrition is a fundamental aspect of managing HIV/AIDS symptoms and living a better life. When living and coping with HIV/AIDS symptoms, one essential diet is consuming a diet high in fruits, vegetables, legumes and whole grains. Having such a diet is necessary as the virus causes the body to undergo numerous changes; thus, it is essential to have a diet full of vegetables and fruits (Moyo et al., 2017). Another essential diet therapy one must follow to ensure optimal health is having a diet rich in proteins such as beef, fish or low-fat dairy products. As the virus causes an individual to lose weight due to the numerous body changes, it is essential to have a diet rich in proteins as it helps build muscle, strengthen the immune system and body organs. Another vital diet therapy is having food rich in carbohydrates such as beans, potatoes and legumes (Akwiwu & Akinbile, 2017).

Why is it essential for them to adhere to these dietary requirements?

When living with HIV/AIDS, eating a nutritious diet is crucial since the body undergoes multiple changes, causing an individual to lose weight, among other side effects. Eating a good diet is also essential for boosting one’s immune system (Yasuoka et al., 2020). Protein-rich diets are imperative because they help the body grow muscle, enhance organ function, and boost immunity. Carbohydrates are necessary since they are the body’s primary energy source, fueling the body’s organs and improving cognitive function. Following these diets is critical since it allows a person to control HIV/AIDS symptoms better and live a healthier life (Akwiwu & Akinbile, 2017).

what may happen if they don’t

HIV/AIDS goes hand in hand with good nutrition; thus, if an individual does not follow a healthy diet plan, it causes adverse effects to their health (Yasuoka et al., 2020). If an individual does not follow the recommended diet, it causes the individual to have a weak immune system; thus, the individual is prone to illnesses at a high rate. Another consequence of not following an appropriate diet is causing body weakness; the individual will often feel weak.

What two strategies can you use to facilitate adherence?

An essential strategy that can be implemented to ensure adherence is for the patient’s physician to have regular check-ups on the patient. Having regular check-ups is vital as the physician can assess the patient’s progress, and further, the patient will adhere to the dietary play implemented (Moyo et al., 2017). Another strategy that can be implemented is using a nutrition tool to monitor your progression. An individual can apply nutrition tools such as malnutrition screening tool (MST) so as they may be able to know their process and further adhere to their dietary plans.