Seven (7) foods to avoid if you have HIV to keep your body strong
Living with HIV means the immune system is weaker than normal, so some foods that may be safe for healthy people can pose serious risks.
Avoiding these foods, or handling and preparing them carefully, helps lower the risk of infections and supports the body’s ability to fight illness.
Raw or undercooked eggs, meat, poultry, and seafood
Raw or partially cooked animal products can contain bacteria or parasites such as Salmonella and Listeria. For people living with HIV, these infections can be more severe.
Tip: Make sure all animal products are well cooked before eating.
Unpasteurised dairy products and juices
Milk and juices that are not pasteurised may contain harmful germs.
Tip: Choose only pasteurised milk, cheese, yoghurt, and beverages.
Soft cheeses, deli meats, and ready to eat cold meats
Soft cheeses like Brie, Camembert, and blue veined cheeses, as well as ready to eat meats, can carry dangerous bacteria.
Tip: Avoid soft cheeses if you are unsure they are pasteurised, and reheat deli meats until they are steaming hot.
Raw seed sprouts such as mung bean and alfalfa
Raw sprouts can become contaminated because of the warm and moist conditions in which they grow.
Tip: Avoid eating raw sprouts or ensure they are thoroughly cooked.
Foods high in processed sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats
Good nutrition is important for supporting the immune system and overall health.
Tip: Reduce intake of sugary drinks, fried foods, processed snacks, and very salty processed meats.
Excessive alcohol intake
Alcohol can weaken the immune system, affect nutrition, and increase the risk of infections.
Tip: Limit or avoid alcohol and seek advice from a healthcare provider.
Poorly handled or contaminated food
Even foods that are normally safe can become dangerous if they are not handled properly. Cross contamination, unwashed fruits and vegetables, and improper storage increase infection risk.
Tip: Wash hands and utensils, clean produce well, keep raw and cooked foods separate, store leftovers correctly, and reheat leftovers properly…CONTINUE MORE READING>>>