Protocol · Immune Health
HIV/AIDS Nutritional Support Protocol
Multivitamin/Multimineral and Selenium are the core of this stack, with 5 supporting supplements. Each row gives the amount the protocol lists and the grade our evidence database holds for that supplement in HIV/AIDS Nutritional Support.
We are re-verifying the studies cited on protocol pages; only confirmed citations are shown.
The stack
7 supplements · 1 graded
| Grade | Supplement | Amount listed | Why it’s in the stack | Evidence on file |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary stackThe core of this protocol | ||||
| Multivitamin/Multimineral | Amount listed: High-potency multivitamin daily | Addresses common micronutrient deficiencies in HIV; may slow disease progression and reduce mortality | Not graded yet | |
| Selenium | Amount listed: 200 mcg daily | Deficiency common in HIV and associated with disease progression; supplementation may support immune function | Not graded yet | |
| Supporting stackListed as additions to the core | ||||
| Vitamin D | Amount listed: 2,000–4,000 IU daily (based on blood levels) | Deficiency extremely common in HIV; affects immune function and bone health | Not graded yet | |
| Zinc | Amount listed: 15–45 mg daily | Supports immune function; deficiency associated with faster HIV progression | Not graded yet | |
| N-Acetylcysteine (NAC) | Amount listed: 600–1,800 mg daily | Replenishes glutathione, which is depleted in HIV; supports immune cell function | Not graded yet | |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | Amount listed: 2–4 g EPA+DHA daily | Anti-inflammatory effects; may help with lipid abnormalities from antiretroviral therapy
| Grade D for C-Reactive Protein (CRP)4 studies · 51 people | |
| Probiotics | Amount listed: Multi-strain formula, 10–50 billion CFU daily | May support gut immune function and reduce microbial translocation | Not graded yet | |
How this protocol works
In plain language
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) attacks the immune system, specifically CD4+ T cells. While antiretroviral therapy (ART) has transformed HIV into a manageable chronic condition, people living with HIV often have higher nutritional needs and are more susceptible to deficiencies. Proper nutrition supports immune function, helps maintain muscle mass, and can improve quality of life and potentially outcomes.
CRITICAL: This protocol is for nutritional support alongside antiretroviral therapy, NOT as a replacement for ART. ART is the cornerstone of HIV treatment. Always discuss supplements with your HIV care provider as some can interact with medications.
- Multivitamin/Multimineral supplementation addresses the common micronutrient deficiencies in HIV. Large trials have shown that multivitamins can slow disease progression and reduce mortality, particularly in resource-limited settings. Even with ART, HIV increases metabolic demands and may impair nutrient absorption.
- Selenium deficiency is very common in HIV and is associated with faster disease progression and higher mortality. Selenium is essential for antioxidant enzymes and immune cell function. Supplementation has been shown to suppress viral load and improve CD4 counts in some studies.
- Vitamin D deficiency is extremely prevalent in people with HIV—up to 70-80% may be deficient. HIV itself, darker skin pigmentation, and some antiretroviral drugs contribute to deficiency. Vitamin D affects immune function and is crucial for bone health (important given increased osteoporosis risk in HIV).
- Zinc supports multiple aspects of immune function. Deficiency accelerates HIV progression. Supplementation may help maintain CD4 counts and reduce opportunistic infections.
- N-Acetylcysteine (NAC) replenishes glutathione, the body's master antioxidant. HIV dramatically depletes glutathione in immune cells, impairing their function. NAC supplementation can restore glutathione levels and may improve T cell function.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids have anti-inflammatory effects and can help manage the dyslipidemia (high triglycerides, abnormal cholesterol) that is common both from HIV infection and from some antiretroviral medications.
- Probiotics may help restore the gut microbiome, which is significantly disrupted in HIV. Gut damage in HIV leads to bacterial translocation and chronic inflammation. Probiotics may help support the gut barrier and immune function.
Expected timeline: Effects are supportive and ongoing. Deficiency correction: 4-12 weeks. Always coordinate with your HIV care team.