Association Between Ultra-Processed Food Consumption and Lymphocyte Profile in People Living with HIV: A Cross-Sectional Study.

INTRODUCTION

Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are characterized by high levels of additives such as sugars, fats, and preservatives and, due to their composition, represent a major public health concern, being associated with several adverse effects, including impacts on the immune system. People living with HIV (PLHIV) present immune dysfunctions resulting from viral infection and may therefore be particularly vulnerable to the effects of UPF consumption. In this context, investigating this association is necessary to support healthcare strategies and improve assistance for PLHIV.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the relationship between UPF consumption and the lymphocyte profile of PLHIV.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional study. PLHIV receiving outpatient follow-up care for at least six months participated in the study and were categorized according to UPF consumption (≤2 times/week; >2 times/week). Sociodemographic data, UPF consumption assessed through a food frequency questionnaire, anthropometric measurements, and blood samples were collected. Association, comparison, and correlation tests were performed, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. After adjustment, lymphocyte percentage remained independently associated with UPF consumption.

RESULTS

A total of 92 PLHIV participated in the study, with a mean age of 43.0 ± 12.0 years. PLHIV with higher UPF consumption presented lower counts of CD3+ lymphocytes (p = 0.03), CD45+ lymphocytes (p = 0.01), and total lymphocytes (p = 0.03) compared to those with lower UPF consumption. UPF consumption was negatively correlated with CD3+ (r = -0.21; p = 0.04), CD4+ (r = -0.20; p = 0.05), CD45+ (r = -0.23; p = 0.02), and total lymphocyte counts (r = -0.25; p = 0.01). No associations were found between sociodemographic or clinical variables and UPF consumption among PLHIV (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

High UPF consumption was associated with lower lymphocyte counts in PLHIV, suggesting a potential association between dietary patterns and immune status. Therefore, the implementation of public health policies and nutritional follow-up is necessary to reduce UPF consumption and promote healthy eating among PLHIV.