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A myHIVteam Member asked a question 💭
Jacksonville, FL
January 9
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Why is it hard to gain weight at 48 with HIV?

Gaining weight can be challenging for several reasons when you're living with HIV, especially as you get older.

Age-related factors
As you age, your metabolism naturally changes, which can affect how your body processes and stores nutrients. Nearly half of people with HIV in Show Full Answer

Why is it hard to gain weight at 48 with HIV?

Gaining weight can be challenging for several reasons when you're living with HIV, especially as you get older.

Age-related factors:
As you age, your metabolism naturally changes, which can affect how your body processes and stores nutrients. Nearly half of people with HIV in the United States are over 50, and they may experience similar weight challenges as older adults who are HIV-negative.

HIV-related factors:
HIV itself can impact your body's ability to maintain or gain weight. Immune system changes related to HIV may affect your metabolism and how your body uses energy. Lower CD4 counts or higher immune activation can also play a role in weight management.

Other health considerations:
People with HIV have a higher risk of developing conditions like heart disease and diabetes, which can affect weight. Sometimes these conditions or their treatments can make it harder to gain or maintain weight.

What you can do:
Talk to your doctor about your concerns. They can check for underlying issues and work with you to develop a plan. A registered dietitian can help you create a nutrition plan that supports healthy weight gain while ensuring you get all the nutrients your body needs.

January 9

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