HIV

Question 1

HIV Malnutrition & Malabsorption

Answer 1

High Risk:
Malabsorption and increased energy needs due to HIV or medications.
Symptoms: Poor appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea → weight loss and nutrient deficiencies.

Impact: Nutritional deficiencies exacerbate malnutrition and health complications.

Question 2

HIV Medication Side Effects

Answer 2

Hyperlipidemia & Insulin Resistance:
Certain ARTs increase lipids and insulin resistance, raising CVD risk.

Osteoporosis & Anemia:
Linked to steroids and other medications.

Candida Infections:
Due to immune suppression.

Loss of Lean Body Mass (LBM):
Strategies like HEHP (high-energy, high-protein) support are critical.

Other Symptoms: Flatulence, anorexia, constipation, diarrhea, taste changes, vitamin D deficiency.

Question 3

HIV Dietary Approaches

Answer 3

Low Viral Load & No Opportunistic Infections (OI):
Balanced diet following AGHE guidelines; nutritional needs (kcal, protein) match the general population.
Adequate intake of protein, energy, PAL, and essential vitamins and minerals (ADEK, Ca, Fe, Zn, B6, B12).

OI or Newly Diagnosed:
Increase energy and protein; ensure adequate PAL and nutrient intake.

If Protein-Energy Malnutrition (PEM):
HEHP diet with necessary vitamins and minerals.

Question 4

Nutrition Impacts of ART (Antiretroviral Therapy)

Answer 4

Food Interactions:
Some ARTs require food for optimal absorption.
Others should be taken on an empty stomach or without alcohol (e.g., dolutegravir).
Avoid Mg or Ca supplements within 2 hours of certain ART doses.

Herbal Interactions:
St John’s Wort, garlic, and certain African remedies can reduce ART absorption.
Other supplements (e.g., borage oil, milk thistle) may interact with ARTs.

Question 5

HIV Food Insecurity

Answer 5

Prevalence: 47% of PLHIV were food insecure (2018).

Demographics: Women and Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander PLHIV are most affected.

Consideration: Food insecurity is critical in dietetic management.

Question 6

HIV Weight Management

Answer 6

Overweight PLHIV: Gradual weight loss is recommended, as rapid changes can harm health.

Question 7

HIV Malnutrition Screening

Answer 7

Frequency: Regular SGA tool screening based on individual risk.

Question 8

HIV Food Safety

Answer 8

Importance: Essential for PLHIV to prevent infections due to weakened immune systems.