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. 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.

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a retrovirus. It was first discovered in early 1980s. It affects a type of white blood cell (T Cell). Once this virus enters inside the body it completely cover the T Cell and start making a number of copies of itself. It fails the immune system of the body, which causes Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS). Currently, there is no vaccine available to prevent HIV infection.

HIV is present in the blood and genital secretions of virtually all individuals infected with HIV, regardless of whether or not they have symptoms. The spread of HIV can occur when these secretions come in contact with tissues such as those lining the vagina, anal area, mouth, or eyes (the mucus membranes), or with a break in the skin, such as from a cut or puncture by a needle.

What are the early symptoms of HIV infection?

Many people do not develop any symptoms when they first become infected with HIV. Some people, however, get a flu-like illness within three to six weeks after exposure to the virus. This illness, called Acute HIV Syndrome, may include fever, headache, tiredness, nausea, diarrhoea and enlarged lymph nodes (organs of the immune system that can be felt in the neck, armpits and groin). These symptoms usually disappear within a week to a month and are often mistaken for another viral infection.

Neurological and psychiatric involvement: HIV infection may lead to a variety of neuropsychiatric sequelae, either by infection of the now susceptible nervous system by organisms, or as a direct consequence of the illness itself.

Toxoplasmosis is a disease caused by the single-celled parasite called Toxoplasma gondii; it usually infects the brain causing toxoplasma encephalitis but it can infect and cause disease in the eyes and lungs

Risk Factors

Have unprotected sex with multiple partners. You’re at risk whether you’re heterosexual, homosexual or bisexual. Unprotected sex means having sex without using a new latex or polyurethane condom every time.

Have unprotected sex with someone who is HIV-positive.

Have another sexually transmitted disease, such as syphilis, herpes, chlamydia, gonorrhea or bacterial vaginosis.

Low Status of Women: Infection rates have been on the increase among women and infants in some states. As in many other countries, unequal power relations and the low status of women, as expressed by limited access to human, financial, and economic assets, weakens the ability of women to protect themselves and negotiate safer sex, thereby increasing vulnerability.

Many of these risk factors are behavioral in nature. In other words, by avoiding high-risk behaviors, you can reduce or virtually eliminate your risk of HIV/AIDS infection. Learn the risk factors. If necessary, change your behavior.