World AIDS Day on 1 December brings together people from around the world to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS and demonstrate international solidarity in the face of the pandemic. The day is an opportunity for public and private partners to spread awareness about the status of the pandemic and encourage progress in HIV/AIDS prevention, treatment and care in high prevalence countries and around the world.

An  HIV-positive person’s body undergoes changes, both from medicationsand the disease itself, therefore good nutrition can have several benefits. It can:

• Improve your overall quality of life by providing nutrients your body needs.
• Keep your immune system stronger so you can better fight disease.
• Help manage HIV symptoms and complications.
• Process medications and help manage their side effects.

The Basic Principles of Nutrition and HIV

• Eating a diet high in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and legumes
• Choosing lean, low-fat sources of protein
• Limiting sweets, soft drinks, and foods with added sugar
• Including proteins, carbohydrates, and a little good fat in all meals and snacks