HIV / Aids

The human immunodeficiency virus, or HIV, is the underlying cause of acquired immune deficiency syndrome, or AIDS. Following the initial infection with the virus, it may take years before the immune system is damaged to the extent that AIDS-related illnesses arise. AIDS develops when the body can no longer fight off such diseases as pneumonia, fungal or parasitic infestations, and certain cancers. So far, there is no cure and no vaccine against HIV or AIDS.

HIV is carried in the body fluids (such as blood, semen, vaginal secretions, and breast milk) of those who are infected. It is spread when others come into contact with these fluids, particularly during sex or through exposure to contaminated blood (which can happen among drug users who share needles). Nonetheless, the virus is hard to transmit because it dies very quickly outside the host's body. Thus HIV does not spread through air or water, nor does it travel easily from person to person (through coughing or sharing drinking cups, for example), as many other viruses do.

Supplements and herbs

The recommended supplements, all aimed at boosting immunity, should be taken together. They can be used along with conventional AIDS drugs, and should be continued long term. Benefits may be felt within a month.

Antioxidant therapy-especially mega doses of vitamin C-shows promise in slowing the disease and strengthening the immune system. Vitamin C appears to fight viruses and fungal infections, and it has anti-inflammatory properties. The nutrient coenzyme Q10 plays a vital role in energy production and may improve stamina in people with AIDS. It also has an antioxidant effect. Other useful antioxidants include vitamin E and alpha-lipoic acid.

Zinc is crucial to the healthy functioning of the immune system and may help maintain body weight. Don't exceed the recommended dose because excessive intake may impair immunity. Zinc may be most beneficial in the later stages of AIDS, to combat pneumonia and fungal infections. Zinc depletes copper stores, so take both minerals.

The amino acid NAC (N-acetylcysteine), balanced with a mixed amino acid complex, acts as an antioxidant, stimulates the immune system, assists in repairing body tissues, and fights weight loss. Most notably, NAC seems to interfere with the replication of all viruses, including HN. A special preparation of whey protein can boost glutathione levels in the blood and improve immune function. The herb turmeric (take it with bromelain for better absorption) may also block HN reproduction. Essential fatty acids improve immune function, and DHEA, a hormone, works to reduce the muscle wasting that is associated with AIDS. Some studies suggest that extracts of reishi and maitake mushrooms, as well as other Japanese varieties, can stimulate immunity and improve survival rates in those with certain AIDS-related cancers.

What else you can do

• Exercise regularly and stop smoking.
• Reduce stress. Meditation, yoga, or a support group may help.

How much to take

Vitamin C / Vitamin E

1,000 mg vitamin C 3 times a day; 400 IU vitamin E daily.
Vitamin C helps boost the effects of vitamin E.

Coenzyme Q 10

100 mg twice a day.
For best absorption, take with food.

Zinc / Copper

30 mg zinc and 2 mg copper a day.
Add copper only when using zinc longer than 1 month.

NAC / Amino acid complex

500 mg NAC 3 times a day; follow label for amino acids.
Take both on an empty stomach but at different times.

Turmeric / Bromelain

400 mg turmeric and 500 mg bromelain 3 times a day.
Bromelain to provide 6,000 GDU or 9,000 MCU daily.

Essential fatty acids

1,000 mg evening primrose oil 3 times a day; 1 tbsp (14 grams) flaxseed on a day.
Or use 1,000 mg borage oil once a day for primrose oil.

DHEA

100 mg each morning.
Take only under medical supervision. Don't use if you're at risk for hormone-related (breast, prostate, etc.) cancers.

Reishi / Maitake mushrooms

500 mg reishi and 200 mg maitake 3 times a day.
Avoid reishi mushrooms if you're on anticoagulants.

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