What is the optimal protein intake for people with immune deficiencies such as HIV infection?
Protein is the raw material used by your immune system to make antibodies and new cells. It is also necessary for maintaining a healthy amount of muscle tissue as well as replenishing the millions of intestinal cells that are lost each day. Dozens of studies have shown that, if protein intake is deficient, the immune system gradually weakens and serious infections may occur. The amount of protein a person requires on a daily basis depends on several factors. These include a person’s weight, activity level, and if you are HIV(+) whether or not your viral load is completely suppressed by antiviral medication. A person with a high viral load requires more protein to maintain their CD4 count because more cells are being lost in the battle with HIV. To best estimate the amount of protein you need on a daily basis, take your weight in pounds and divide it in half (weight X 0.5). You should use your target weight if you are significantly underweight or overweight. This gives you the number of
