Dietary and Supplement Intake of HIV-Infected Children and Young Adults

Abstract

Objective. To describe the dietary intake of HIV-infected urban children and young adults and to evaluate their diet quality. Methods. Participants were children and youth with both perinatally and behaviorally acquired HIV infection participating in a study of vitamin D supplementation. Data collected included dietary intake, anthropometrics, and HIV status, with medical history abstracted from participants’ medical records. Results. Of 55 participants, 38 were male, 46 were African American, with a mean age of 20.7 ± 3.8 years. Growth and nutritional status were comparable to reference norms. Only 22% either met or exceeded their estimated energy requirement at low-active and 40% at sedentary activity levels. Fiber, potassium, and intakes of vitamins D and E were <50% of recommended dietary allowance/adequate intake (RDA/AI), whereas vitamins A and K, choline, potassium, calcium, and magnesium were ≤75% of RDA/AI. Sodium intake exceeded the dietary reference intake upper limit in 92%. Vitamin D intake was significantly and positively associated with CD4% HIV status indicator. Conclusion. Dietary intake was inadequate for multiple micronutrients, particularly vitamin D, calcium, and potassium. Overall poor dietary quality was observed (in terms of intake of sodium, sugar, saturated fat, cholesterol, and fiber). Participants had high rates of overweight and obesity. These dietary and body weight concerns were similar to those seen in healthy American peers. The vitamin D intake and immunological status correlation deserves further investigation. HIV-infected individuals may benefit from routine dietary assessment and counseling.