Effect of Micro Nutrient Intake on the Immune System of People Living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA)

Abstract

Objectives: The study aims at assessing the effect of micronutrient intake on the immune system (CD4) count of people living with HIV/AIDs by their consumption of some freshly prepared fruit juices. To determine the micronutrient content of the selected fruits Methods: Five (5) HIV infected Volunteers comprising of 4 females and 1 male within 26-40 years were recruited from the Catholic Mission Hospital Emekuke Owerri, Imo State of Nigeria. Five fruits in season (Orange, carrot, Tomatoes, Pineapple and watermelon) were bought, washed, peeled and cut in pieces for blending. The fresh fruit juices were separately extracted in clean containers and for immediate use. One dose (50cl) of the freshly extracted fruit juices were served to them in the mornings and repeated in the evenings for a period of seven days. Blood samples were tested before and after feeding to determine the CD4 (Cluster of Differentiation 4) counts of individual respondents using the CD4 reagents and the patec cyflow machine. The micronutrient content of the fruits were chemically analyzed. Results: Result showed that four out of the five respondents in the study had higher CD4 count after the intervention period of seven days and only one respondent had a reduced CD4 count. There was high content of Vit. A Vit. B1, Vit. B2, & Carotene in carrot. Niacin and Vit. E were highest in tomatoes, while orange had higher level of Vit C compared to other fruits. Conclusions: Antioxidants contained in Fruits and vegetables helps to boost the immune system of HIV positive people.