The effects of cocaine use on dietary intake and BMI changes in HIV+ adults

Abstract

ObjectiveCocaine use has been shown to affect appetite. This study examines the effects of cocaine use on caloric and macronutrient intake in a cohort of HIV+ drug users over a 6‐month period.MethodsAfter consenting 231 HIV+ participants, 24‐hour recalls were administered and anthropometries determined for BMI calculation at baseline, 3 and 6 months. Use, frequency and route of consumption of illicit drugs were assessed through a questionnaire and confirmed by urine toxicology.ResultsMean age was 42.7±7 years and 73.2 % were male. At baseline, use of cocaine (74.7%) was confirmed and was inversely correlated with BMI (r=−0.207, p=0.004), remaining significant over time (r= −0.202, p=0.006). Protein (z= −.904, p=0.046) and carbohydrate (z= −1.904, p=0.05) intakes significantly decreased in cocaine users over time. Changes in energy and fat intake were not significant over 6 months. Protein intake was significantly higher in those who were not using drugs compared to those using either cocaine alone or in combination with other drugs (÷2= 11.4, p=0.01).ConclusionThese findings support a significant association of sustained cocaine use with adverse changes in BMI that seems to be mediated by decreased intake of protein and carbohydrate over time, without significant changes in total energy. Further studies are needed to determine dietary recommendations for HIV+ cocaine users.Funded by NIDAGrant Funding Source: NIDA