Cholesterol & HIV

Cholesterol is a waxy substance that circulates in your bloodstream and plays an important role in the composition of cell membranes, hormones and enzymes. While cholesterol is an essential element in the body, too much cholesterol can be harmful. Elevated cholesterol levels can cause narrowing and hardening of your arteries, which may lead to a heart attack or stroke. Several factors, including genetics, diet and medical conditions such as HIV can affect cholesterol levels.

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Types of Cholesterol

Total cholesterol divides into three different types. High density lipoprotein, or HDL, is commonly referred to as "good cholesterol." A high level of HDL may decrease your risk of heart disease and stroke. Low density lipoprotein, or LDL, is a bad type of cholesterol that can stick to your artery walls, increasing your risk for heart disease and stroke. Triglycerides, the third type of cholesterol, can also be harmful when levels are elevated, increasing your risk for heart disease.

Relationship between HIV and Cholesterol Levels

Research conducted at Harlem Hospital and Columbia University found that individuals with HIV who are not receiving antiretroviral medications have altered lipid profiles. Individuals with lower CD4 counts and higher viral loads had lower levels of HDL. High viral loads were also associated with lower levels of LDL and higher triglyceride levels. Antiretroviral medications, particularly protease inhibitors, used to treat HIV can also affect cholesterol levels. These medications, while effective in managing HIV, can cause elevated cholesterol levels.

Diet and Cholesterol

Making dietary changes is an effective way for people with HIV to manage their cholesterol levels. Decreasing the amount of saturated fat in your diet can help lower your numbers. Saturated fat is in animal products, including meat, the skin on chicken and turkey, lard, butter, whole milk and cheese and yogurt made from whole milk. To decrease the amount of saturated fat in your diet, trim all visible fat from meats before cooking, choose lean cuts of meat and remove skin from poultry before cooking. Fish and lean poultry are a healthy alternative to red meat. Choose 1 percent or skim milk, low-fat yogurt and reduced-fat cheese. Rather than lard and butter, choose healthier fats such as olive oil or canola oil. If you have high triglycerides, avoid alcohol and limit sweets in your diet.

Professional Resources

If you have concerns about your cholesterol levels and maintaining good nutrition with HIV, consult a registered dietitian. A dietitian can help you design an eating plan to nourish your body while managing your lipid levels and other medical conditions.

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