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Food for Life


Eating Well Can Make a Difference | The Basics of Eating Well | Getting the Exercise You Need
What is Body Composition? | Balancing Medications and Meals | Eating Well Without a Kitchen



Getting the Exercise You Need

Getting regular exercise can give you more energy, build stronger muscles, help you sleep better and feel good about yourself. Exercise also helps you deal with stress.

You should exercise at least 30 minutes most days. It doesn't have to be strenuous, and you don't have to do it all at once. A ten minute walk in the morning, a short stint of gardening in the afternoon, a bike ride to the store, and before you know it, you've done a half an hour of exercise.

Make exercise part of your day. Start slow, be realistic, and don't overdo it.

Remember to drink plenty of fluids when you do any kind of exercise.

Listen to your body and rest when you need to.

Keep it simple:
  • Take the stairs.

  • Walk to the store. Walk your dog.

  • Go out dancing or dance to your favorite music at home.

  • Walk the mall or commercial district. Go window shopping before the stores open.

  • Rent or buy an exercise video. Make sure it's a safe workout that's right for you.

What about Steroids?

Will taking steroids help me build strong muscles? Losing muscle mass is a common problem. Research shows some steroids help people with HIV build muscle, especially if they exercise, too. Testosterone, oxandralone, and human growth hormone help some people's appetites and may help put on muscle weight. But steroids can have harmful side effects, so talk to your doctor before you take any medication.