May/June 2014 Volume 10
3
Healthy Choices Make A Difference
Receiving an HIV-positive diagnosis can turn your world upside down. You are faced with new routines consisting of
doctors’ appointments, new medications, and lifestyle changes. Making choices to live a healthier lifestyle can help you
live a long and productive life.
According to Everydayhealth.com there are a few things you can do immediately:
Eat a more nutritious diet. Fast food isn’t going to cut it anymore. Feeding your body a healthy choice of foods will
help it fight infection.
Quit smoking. How many times have you heard this? Well this is your chance to stop the habit once and for all. Your
body needs oxygen to repair itself. Depriving it will increase your chances of getting an infection.
Stop illicit drug use. It is hard to kick your habits, but finding strength in a clear head will help you make important
decisions that could affect your life.
Get moderate exercise. Get out and walk. You don’t need to run a marathon, but you do need fresh air and sunshine. Exercise not only improves body functions, it helps your brain too. You sleep better, think clearer, and are a
happier person because of exercise.
Practice safe sex. Don’t put yourself or others at risk. HIV is a serious disease and you can stop the spread by using
condoms.
Get tested and treatments for STIs (sexually transmitted infections). If you are having sex with multiple partners you
need to be tested. People who have contracted an STI have a higher chance of contracting HIV.
Follow the instructions on your prescriptions. You went to the doctor to get better right? Be sure to ask questions if
you are unsure about medication usage, but don’t just stop the treatment. These things were put in place to help
you.
Take steps to prevent infection. Stay away from people with colds or other easily transmitted infections. Wash your
hands on a regular basis and avoid touching your face if possible. Infections like the common cold or the flu are
spread easily. If