Association Between Ultra-Processed Food Consumption and Lymphocyte Profile in People Living with HIV: A
Sofia Morais Tornis1, David Michel de Oliveira1, Fábio Morato de Oliveira2
1Laboratory of Immunometabolism, Nutrition and Exercise (LABINE), Federal University of Jataí, Jataí 75801-615, Goiás, Brazil.
Medical Sciences (Basel, Switzerland)
|July 27, 2026
Summary
High ultra-processed food (UPF) intake is linked to lower lymphocyte counts in people living with HIV (PLHIV). Reducing UPF consumption is crucial for improving immune status in this vulnerable population.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Nutritional Science
- Public Health
Background:
- Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) contain high levels of additives and are linked to adverse health effects, including immune system impacts.
- People living with HIV (PLHIV) often have immune dysfunctions, making them potentially more susceptible to UPF effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between ultra-processed food consumption and lymphocyte profiles in people living with HIV.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving 92 PLHIV who were categorized based on UPF consumption frequency.
- Data collected included sociodemographic information, UPF intake via food frequency questionnaire, anthropometric measurements, and blood samples.
- Statistical analyses, including association, comparison, and correlation tests, were performed with significance set at p < 0.05.
Main Results:
- Higher UPF consumption in PLHIV was associated with significantly lower counts of CD3+, CD45+, and total lymphocytes.
- UPF consumption showed negative correlations with CD3+, CD4+, CD45+, and total lymphocyte counts.
- No significant associations were found between sociodemographic or clinical variables and UPF consumption.
Conclusions:
- Elevated ultra-processed food consumption is linked to reduced lymphocyte counts in PLHIV, indicating a potential impact on immune status.
- Public health policies and nutritional guidance are recommended to decrease UPF intake and promote healthier diets among PLHIV.
