Analysis of the Dietary and Nutritional Profile of HIV/AIDS Patients Admitted to a University Hospital in Tocantins

Abstract

The infection by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) affects individuals of different age groups and social levels. Due to the infection, individuals may present metabolic alterations that necessitate nutritional management. The objective of this study was to evaluate the dietary profile and nutritional status of patients admitted to a university hospital located in the northern region of Tocantins, Brazil. This was a cross-sectional, descriptive study with a qualitative-quantitative approach. The participants were monitored from September to November 2023. The sample consisted of 14 patients of both sexes, aged between 33 and 62 years. A specific form was used to collect sociodemographic, anthropometric, and dietary characteristics. The results showed a prevalence of male patients with low educational levels and a nutritional profile compatible with eutrophy according to BMI and malnutrition according to CB. Regarding dietary intake, there was a low consumption of ultra-processed foods, moderate consumption of regulators, and a significant consumption of energy and building foods when compared to recommendations. Therefore, individualized nutritional interventions are necessary to provide a better quality of life for people living with HIV.