Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 1993. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.
San Francisco Chronicle - Wednesday, November 10, 1993
Jean Weininger
Understandably, people with AIDS may be willing to take risks, but they should be cautious about taking large doses of certain nutrients such as zinc or iron; excessive consumption can actually impair immune function and make matters worse.
Significant weight loss is practically universal in the AIDS population: Sores in the mouth, nausea, vomiting, difficulty absorbing food, diarrhea and metabolic problems can all contribute to malnutrition -- which, in turn, can increase susceptibility to other life-threatening infections.
But feeding a severely starved AIDS patient is tricky. Abrupt changes in fluid or carbohydrate intake, for example, can lead to fatal complications. When consumption of ordinary food or food supplements is not possible, sophisticated nutritional support is required.
Food safety is also extremely important. People with AIDS cannot afford a case of food poisoning, so every effort should be made to protect against salmonella and other food hazards by careful washing, handling and cooking of food.
Copyright © 1993 - San Francisco Chronicle Press. All rights reserved. Reproduced with permission. Reproduction of this article (other than one copy for personal reference) must be cleared through the San Francisco Chronicle, Permissions Desk, 901 Mission Street, San Franciso, CA 94103. You may also send a fax to (415) 495-3843, or an email message to chronperm@sfgate.com. http://www.sfgate.com.
AEGiS is a 501(c)3, not-for-profit, tax-exempt, educational corporation. AEGiS is made possible through unrestricted funding from Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, Elton John AIDS Foundation, the National Library of Medicine, Pacific Life Foundation and donations from users like you.
Always watch for outdated information. This article first appeared in 1993. This material is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between you and your doctor.
AEGiS presents published material, reprinted with permission and neither endorses nor opposes any material. All information contained on this website, including information relating to health conditions, products, and treatments, is for informational purposes only. It is often presented in summary or aggregate form. It is not meant to be a substitute for the advice provided by your own physician or other medical professionals. Always discuss treatment options with a doctor who specializes in treating HIV.
Copyright ©1980, 1993. AEGiS. All materials appearing on AEGiS are protected by copyright as a collective work or compilation under U.S. copyright and other laws and are the property of AEGiS, or the party credited as the provider of the content. .