• Intervention
    What is the evidence regarding dietary treatment of diarrhea/malabsorption in people with HIV infection?
    • Conclusion

      Seven studies were reviewed to evaluate dietary treatment of diarrhea/malabsorption in people with HIV infection. Many of these studies did not provide information on medications.  Two studies regarding fat malabsorption reported that consumption of medium chain triglycerides resulted in fewer stools, decreased stool fat and weight and increased fat absorption. Two studies regarding vitamin A and beta-carotene supplementation reported decreased gut permeability and risk of severe watery diarrhea. Further research regarding amino acid-based elemental diets, probiotics, pancreatic enzyme therapy, calcium carbonate, glutamine and the BRAT diet in people with HIV/AIDS is warranted, as well as the effect of medications.

       

    • Grade: II
      • Grade I means there is Good/Strong evidence supporting the statement;
      • Grade II is Fair;
      • Grade III is Limited/Weak;
      • Grade IV is Expert Opinion Only;
      • Grade V is Not Assignable.
      • High (A) means we are very confident that the true effect lies close to that of the estimate of the effect;
      • Moderate (B) means we are moderately confident in the effect estimate;
      • Low (C) means our confidence in the effect estimate is limited;
      • Very Low (D) means we have very little confidence in the effect estimate.
      • Ungraded means a grade is not assignable.