Guiding the evolutionary course of chronic diseases may seem more difficult than altering the course of acute infectious diseases. If the damage from the chronic disease has not evolved as an adaptation, then one might wonder how one can alter the organism by invoking adaptations. The trick is knowing where to look for opportunities. If a pathogen cannot be transmitted from a chronic infection, then this lack of transmission can allow for escape from counteradaptation, as discussed regarding antibiotic resistance among infectious agents of atherosclerosis. If transmission can occur, the trick may be to learn how to use the immune system as a device to control evolution that occurs as a result of competition within hosts, as with the use of therapeutic vaccines and antivirals against HIV. But whatever the particular details of the situation, one thing is certain: the pathogens will evolve, and we will cut off our options for controlling them if we neglect their evolutionary potential.*64\225\2*

Diet plays an important role in maintaining normal health. It is especially important for people who have HIV infection as poor nutritional status increases the risk of opportunistic infections. A balanced diet of cereals, proteins and large portions of vegetables are recommended for people with HIV infection.
Cereals contain complex carbohydrates, B-complex vitamins, proteins and several minerals. Since they are the main source of energy, they should form the major portion of the entire diet. Protein requirement for people with HIV infection is suspected to be higher than those without the infection. Proteins from eggs and dairy products are of good quality. Fish and meat can also be good sources of proteins. Vegetarians need to eat larger portions of whole grains, nuts and legumes to meet the daily protein requirement. Since the body does not store proteins, it is important that adequate proteins are consumed everyday.
Dairy products such as milk, yogurt, paneer, cheese, etc., are rich in calcium. Regular intake of these foods helps maintain normal functions of the muscles, bones, nerves and the brain.
Vegetables and fruits are also an important part of the balanced diet. They provide vitamins and minerals necessary for healthy living. Coloured vegetables and fruits (such as carrots, papaya, green leafy vegetables, etc.) are preferable because they have important nutrients such as beta carotenes. They are also important antioxidants, which are essential for maintaining normal health. Anti-oxidants are chemicals or other agents that inhibit or retard oxidation of a substance to which they are added. Oxidation is the term used for any process that increases oxygen content of a substance.
HIV infection increases the risk of wasting of the muscles. As a result, the affected person becomes weak and sick. In order to avoid muscle wasting, people with HIV need to exercise regularly and eat small and frequent meals everyday. Three meals and two snacks are desirable at fixed times. These meals should be taken even if there is no hunger.
Fluids such as water, fruit juices and herbal teas should be consumed more by people with HIV infection. Coffee and tea can lead to dehydration and therefore their intake should be limited to a total of about four cups a day. Alcohol should be avoided as it adversely affects the liver, especially if taken along with medicines.
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