AIDS Committee of Windsor

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Vitamin Supplementation:  Other Supplements
Acidophilus and bifidus are bacteria that naturally live in your intestines and aid digestion. They may help control the growth of candida and may help with diarrhoea.

Bioflavonoids work with Vitamin C to increase its disease fighting ability. They're usually found in foods that are brightly coloured and have large amounts of Vitamin C. They also help fight bacteria and viruses and work as antioxidants. It is also found in garlic, onions, grapes and citrus fruits. Pycnogenol is a powerful antioxidant.

C0-enzyme Q10 is an antioxidant that may help maintain the strength of your heart. The suggested dose is 30-100 mg per day. It is found in red meat.

Digestive enzymes help your body break down food. There are three types available: amylase, protease and lipase. Many foods are excellent sources (especially pineapples). Enzymes are also sold in health food stores.

Essential fatty acids help cells multiply and may prevent some diseases. They can also play an important role in your immune system's response to illness. Flax seed, borage and evening primrose oils are rich sources of EFAs.

L-carnitine is an amino acid that helps move fatty acids into and within cells. Research has shown that this amino acid is low in many people with advanced AIDS. Supplementing may improve immune function, increase energy, help reverse muscle wasting, normalize levels of fats in your blood, and protect against nerve damage such as peripheral neuropathy. The suggested dose is 250-1,000 mg per day.

L-lysine is an amino acid that may speed up recovery from herpes infections and may keep them from coming back as often.

Melatonin is a hormone that is released by your pinel gland. Melatonin regulates hormones and works as an antioxidant. In its hormonal role, it regulates your body clock, enhances sleep, boosts your immune system, and may help protect you against cancer. You must discuss the use of melatonin with your doctor as many people cannot take this supplement.

Monolaurin is a type of fat found in human milk that seems to work in the test tube against several viruses including herpes simplex, CMV, and influenza. It can be found in coconut oil, butter and milk.

N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) is an amino acid usually prescribed for acetaminophen overdose. It raises levels of glutathione in your cells. These levels tend to become low in people with HIV and AIDS. Glutathione is an antioxidant needed for boosting energy and immune function. It may also help restore the function of T cells and reduce the wasting seen in the late stages of AIDS.


Contact Information
Name:  Sharron Cooney  Phone:  519-973-0222 ext. 229  Email:  scooney@aidswindsor.org
Name:  Lori Baxter Phone:  519-973-0222 ext. 223  Email:  lbaxter@aidswindsor.org
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Updated November 30, 2004

1168 Drouillard Rd., Suite B, Windsor, ON    N8Y 2R1  PH: 519-973-0222 or 1-800-265-4858  FAX: 519/973-7389