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HIV is an infectious disease that weakens the immune system particularly Cluster designation 4(CD4), which defend our body against pathogens.
Its spread by contact with certain bodily fluids of a person that has the virus. You don’t get it only by having unprotected sex but also via unscreened blood transfusion and sharing of ingestion equipment.
The virus kills CD4 cells, increased the viral load which prepare opportunistic disease such as diabetes, hypertension, tuberculosis, diarrhoea and cancer to develop.
Normal adult CD4 count is 500 – 1,600 per cubic millimeter. Whereas those living with HIV, they CD4 count falls below 200 per cubic millimeter.
If you’re diagnosed of HIV, seek regular intake of antiretroviral drugs as well as nutrition care plans. If they’re taken as prescribed by health practitioner, they help reduce the viral load to a level you cannot transmitt it to your partner.
Oxidative stress is formed due to weak immune system causes by the HIV. It is synthesized through Oxidative metabolism. Oxidative stress attacks the cells, causing alterations in gene expression.
This alteration in the gene, DNA molecules may manifest as deficiency in some vital nutrients such as fat, protein and micronutrients.
Incredible South African Fruits for HIV/AIDs Patients
1. Papaya
Every cup of Papaya you consume provide about 88mg of vitamin C, which help boost immunity(1). Vitamin C in Papaya act as antioxidant that can sophisticatedly suppress pathogenic effect in the body. Equally, Papaya has capacity to prevent inflammation and symptoms linked to HIV/AIDS (1).
2. Orange
Orange is a Citrus fruits that are widely consumed owing to its nutritional profile. Orange is one of the richest sources of vitamin C. It helps our body in terms of cell rejuvenation as well as preventing anaemia. The body get 83mg from one medium size of Orange you consume (2).
3. Strawberry
This is a good source of vitamin C. Taken a medium size of it will earn you 97mg of vitamin C (3) It also possess, flavonoids, folate, and other beneficial antioxidants.
The presence of flavonoid, antioxidant help mitigate oxidative stress which can facility opportunistic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension among others.
4. Lemon
Lemon is a powerhouse of vitamin C. One medium size of lemon supply about 45mg of vitamin c, natural compounds as well.
This antioxidant help strengthen the immune system, decrease oxidative stress and prevent some symptoms of HIV in the body.
Studies have shown that lemon juice may assist in blood pressure optimization (4).
5. Kiwi
Recent studies revealed that adequate intake of Kiwi dialy can increase your white blood cells levels to reasonable amounts (5).
A medium size of Kiwi you consume, benefit your immune system as it offers 55mg of vitamin C.
6. Guava
Guava is a good source of vitamin C, and natural compounds that boost your immune system.
The lycopene, antioxidant serve as detoxifer since it neutralize toxic substance designed to enhance numerous diseases in the body.
7. Pinapal
It is a rich source of vitamin C which is essential for immune system. Apart from vitamin C, a cup of Pinapal will provide nutrients like thiamine, copper, and vitamin B-6.
There is no doubt that these nutrients contribute profoundly in many metabolic activities in the body (6).
8. Blueberries
Blueberries are loaded with numerous phytochemicals and nutrients that assist in boosting your immune system.
9. Banana
It contains vitamin ,minerals, and fiber. These nutrients contribute profoundly in promoting your immune system. It delay accumulation of free radicals, a known risk factor of numerous diseases such as cancer, inflammation among others.
10. Mangoes
Mangoes are loaded with vitamin C, which aid immunity, iron absorption, and cell growth and repair.
Immune system defend you against bacteria virus, and fungal. So, boosting it offers you general well-being (7) .
Conclusion
There no cure for HIV/AIDs but can be manage with antiretroviral drugs and adequate diet.
It is a chronic disease which often present with opportunistic diseases include tuberculosis, hypertension, diabetes among others.
Amazing South African Fruits for HIV/AIDs Patients include bananas, Kiwi, Pinapal, lemon, orange, Blueberries etc.
Consult a dietitian or doctor if you’re diagnosed of HIV for expert care.
