ABSTRACT
In low-income countries, undernutrition and infectious diseases are major health problems. A Cochrane Review from 2011 identified six trials assessing the effects of macronutrient supplements. Despite obvious differences between human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and tuberculosis (TB), both are characterized by wasting and often affect underprivileged individuals. Patients with advanced HIV infection and clinical TB disease often live in food-insecure settings, and their habitual diet does not contain enough energy and nutrients to meet their requirements. In addition to ameliorating food security and nutritional status, interventions may also have a beneficial impact on disease and treatment outcomes. Nutritional deficiencies are known to have effects on a wide range of general health outcomes, which may translate into effects on human capital. The effects of a nutritional intervention do not necessarily negate the effects of the deficiencies it targets.
