People who are infected with HIV sometimes try dietary supplements that claim to boost the immune system or counteract side effects of anti-HIV drugs.
Supplements that may be helpful
- Fish oil. Some anti-HIV drugs can cause increases in cholesterol levels. Studies indicate that fish oil supplements can help bring those numbers down.
- Whey protein. Preliminary evidence indicates that whey protein, a cheese by-product, can help some people with HIV gain weight. Whey protein also appears to reduce diarrhea and increase CD4 counts.
- Coenzyme Q10. This supplement appears to increase levels of CD4 cells, which could make your immune system stronger. More research is needed, however.
Supplements that may be dangerous
- St. John's wort. Commonly used to combat depression, St. John's wort can reduce the effectiveness of several types of anti-HIV drugs by more than 50 percent.
- Garlic supplements. Although garlic may help strengthen the immune system, it also interacts with several anti-HIV drugs — reducing their effectiveness by 50 percent. Occasionally eating garlic in food appears to be safe.
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