Effect of Two Nutritional Based Strategies on the Weight and CD4 Status of Underweight Persons Living Positive in a South- Western Town, Nigeria

Effect of nutrition on PLWHA status

Abstract

Using an experimental design, the effect of a nutrition supplement on the weight and CD4 count of 86 underweight persons living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) was investigated. The nutrition supplement was prepared from soaked maize, soaked-sprouted soybean and roasted groundnut seeds, in the ratio of 6:3:1 and chemically analysed.  Baseline data (weight, mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC), body mass index (BMI) and CD4 counts) was obtained. The study group received both nutrition supplement (100g sachet/day for 12 weeks) and nutrition counseling while the control group received only nutrition counseling. Anthropometric and CD4 count data were recollected at 12^th week. Independent T-test and mixed model analysis were applied to determine significant differences (p < 0.01). The nutrient composition of the nutrition supplement per 100g were protein (20.56%), fiber (0.20%), fat (16.91%), ash (2.15%), carbohydrates (57.44%), calcium (174.38mg), zinc (2.65mg) and iron (3.57mg). Majority of participants were aged 31-50 years (53.6%) and female (67.9%). Baseline mean weight, BMI and MUAC values for study and control groups were 48.7 ± 7.8; 18.1 ± 1.8; 20.4 ± 1.8 cm and 47.6 ± 5.6; 17.2 ± 0.9; 18.3 ± 1.1 cm, respectively. At the end of 12 weeks, the study group exhibited significant changes in weight (6.4 vs 2.5 kg), BMI (2.4 vs 1.0 kg/m²), MUAC (2.5 vs 0.8 cm) and CD4+ counts (93.5 vs 11.7) at p < 0.01.  Underweight persons living with HIV/AIDS offered nutrition supplement in addition to nutrition counseling had higher weight, BMI, MUAC and CD4 count changes than those offered only nutrition counseling.