| dc.description.abstract |
Renewed efforts to provide proper nutritional care are essential for appropriate
pediatric HIV management. Current studies support the use of vitamin A and
macronutrients that increase caloric and protein intake. With additional research
on key issues such as the needed composition and timing for nutritional
supplementation, we can determine the best strategies to support the growth and
development of HIV-infected children in resource-limited settings. Malnutrition
among children is common in the resource-limited settings where HIV infection is
most prevalent. While malnutrition is associated with higher morbidity and
mortality for HIV-infected children, there is only limited evidence to guide the use
of nutritional support for HIV-infected children. The best studied is vitamin A,
which is associated with improved mortality and clinical outcomes. Zinc and
multivitamin supplementation have not consistently been associated with clinical
benefits. Limited research suggests macronutrient supplementation, which typically
uses enriched formulas or foods, improves key anthropometrics for HIV-infected
children, but the optimal composition of nutrients for supplementation has not
been determined. More research is needed to understand the most efficient and
sustainable ways to ensure adequate nutrition in this vulnerable population. |
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