Nutritional treatment for ambulatory patients with acquired immunodeficiency virus infection and previous weight loss using a formula enriched with n3 fatty acids: a randomized prospective trial.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Dietary counseling and oral supplementation have unclear results in preventing the progressive weight loss in human deficiency virus (HIV)-infection. The aim of the study was to compare the progression of nutritional indicators with or without a formula enriched with n-3 fatty acids.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

30 HIV patients were enrolled. 15 were randomized to group I (standard formula) and 15 were randomized to group II (formula enriched with n-3 fatty acids). A nutritional evaluation was realized at basal time and at 3 months.

RESULTS

An increase in protein and calories intakes was detected in both. There was a significant increase in n3 fatty acid intake from baseline in group II, without statistical changes in group I. Treatment with both supplements resulted in a significant and sustained increase in weight (4.5% in group I and 5.4%, in group II). This increase was mostly due to fat free mass in group I. In group II it was due to an increase in fat free mass and fat mass.

CONCLUSIONS

Oral nutritional supplements for a 3-months period were well tolerated and resulted in body weight gain in HIV-infected patients with previous weight loss.