If I test HIV-positive, what should I do to protect my health?

The UN encourages all its employees to take care of their health, but this is especially important for people who are HIV-positive.

If you are living with HIV, you should take care to eat more and focus on consuming healthy foods. Proteins, such as meat, fish, beans, nuts and seeds, help build and maintain muscle. Energy is supplied by carbohydrates, which come from grains, cereals, vegetablesand fruits. You should consume a modest amount of fat, with emphasis on the 'monosaturated' fats found in nuts, seeds, certain vegetable oils, and fish. Avoid as much as possible the harmful fats found in butter and animal products.

Those of us who are HIV-positive should take extra care in the preparation of foods. Wash your hands before making meals, and carefully wash all fruits and vegetables. Avoid raw or undercooked eggs or meat, refrigerate leftovers and eat them within three days, and do not purchase or prepare food beyond its expiry date.

If you are HIV-positive, you should also drink plenty of liquids. Minimize your intake of tea, coffee, colas, chocolate or alcohol, as these fluids can actually cause you to lose body fluid. If you are not sure that your public water supply is completely pure, you should boil your water or drink bottled water.

You should also exercise regularly, try to sleep at least eight hours a night, rest when you are tired, and try to minimize stress and anxiety. Having a social support network often helps, so you