Position of the American Dietetic Association and the Canadian Dietetic Association: nutrition intervention in the care of persons with human immunodeficiency virus infection

Abstract

The goals of medical nutrition therapy in HIV disease include early assessment and treatment of nutrient deficiencies, maintenance and restoration of lean body mass, and support for activities of daily living and quality of life. The maintenance and restoration of nutritional stores are closely interrelated and interdependent with each of the other recommended medical therapies. Therefore, it is vital to the health of persons with HIV/AIDS to have access to the services of a registered dietitian, who is the essential member of the health care team for providing medical nutrition, therapy (49). The registered dietitian should take an active role in developing nutrition care protocols for HIV/AIDS in their practice setting. Dietetics professionals must take responsibility for obtaining and maintaining current knowledge in this area and should take the lead in translating current knowledge and research into practical and realistic nutrition guidelines for persons with HIV/AIDS. Further research is needed in the area of HIV/AIDS and nutrition. Registered dietitians and other members of the health care team are encouraged to conduct nutrition research in the area of nutrition interventions and the outcomes of nutrition therapy. Additionally, government health-related agencies, national AIDS-related organizations, and private industry should be encouraged to provide funding sources and support to the issue of research in nutrition-related problems and interventions in HIV/AIDS.