If you have been diagnosed with HIV and have begun antiretroviral therapy, besides your standard medical treatment, it is significant to be proactive in keeping yourself active and healthy. HIV is not a death sentence in any way; you can have a long and healthy life for a long time if you make good choices. Here are some essential tips to keep yourself in tiptop shape:
Adopt healthy lifestyle habits
It is important to have a healthy, nutritious diet to keep your immune system in fighting shape. Dietary choices that are good for your heart can go a long way in preventing serious issues like high LDL cholesterol, which can be a result of HIV treatment. Make sure your diet contains lots of fresh vegetables and fruits, lean protein, and whole grains as all these foods are filled with nutrients that can boost and fortify your immune system.
Incorporate regular exercise into your life to both manage stress and up the quality of your life in every way. Exercising regularly is also an excellent way to fight HIV-caused fatigue.
If you are a smoker, quit smoking. Individuals with HIV are at an increased risk of suffering from a heart attack or developing lung cancer due to their weakened immune system. Smoking cigarettes contributes to a higher risk of these conditions.
Also, limit your intake of alcohol and avoid doing illicit drugs as these also weaken your immune system and are detrimental to your overall health.
Medical Cannabis
Medicinal marijuana is helpful in working up an appetite and improving nausea in people with HIV. Discuss how to get a medical marijuana permit with your physician to relieve your symptoms as its medical use by individuals with HIV is legal in most states and provinces.
Find a Support Group
Having emotional support is essential when you are HIV-positive, especially when you are first diagnosed. Support groups are excellent spaces to share all kinds of problems, knowledge, as well as feelings pertaining to your disease with people who know what you are going through. A simple search on the internet can help you find a local HIV support group in your area.
Protect Yourself from Other Infections
Due to their impaired immune system, individuals with HIV are at a higher risk of getting some infections and developing certain diseases, including pneumonia and some cancer types, so it is vital to get vaccinations to prevent infections.
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Posted on May 22, 2023