Protein-Energy Malnutrition and HIV

The pre-cooked porridge, e'Pap, is available in vanilla, banana and strawberry.

Good nutrition can slow the progress of HIV/AIDS and improve anti-retroviral (ARV) compliance and effectiveness. In fact, poor nutrition is delaying ARV rollout in some countries. Nutrition experts offer three main recommendations for people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA), all of which are difficult for low-income populations: (1) eat a healthy, balanced diet; (2) increase calories by 10% if asymptomatic, 20-30% if symptomatic; (3) get the Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) of micronutrients. Taking ARVs, DOTS, or even vitamins on an empty stomach can cause side effects like nausea, and vitamins can't deliver calories or protein. There are several products which deliver calories, protein, and micronutrients in a precooked or ready-to-eat form.

One example of such a product is e'Pap, a pre-cooked porridge, manufactured from natural, full-fat maize and soya (delivering 430 calories and 12 grams of protein per 100-gram adult serving), fortified with 100% RDA vitamins and minerals wrapped in amino acids to maximize absorption by the body.

PSI programs in Namibia and Zimbabwe have offered these products to PLWHA. Additionally, PSI is working with other prototypes that deliver both protein-energy and micronutrients. Upcoming launches are planned for several countries so check back soon.