How can I increase my CD4 count without ARVs?

The long answer

Your doctor is giving you good information and advice. Only HIV medication will increase your CD4 count. Nothing else, including multi-vitamins, supplements or herbal remedies can increase your CD4 count. Looking after yourself is important. For example, eating a balanced diet, keeping physically and mentally active, reducing stress, and sleeping well. But increasing your CD4 count is only proven by using ARVs.

While a CD4 one day, may be higher than a few weeks ago, this is due to random chance. In general, over time, without ARVs, your CD4 count will decline. A CD4 count below 300, such as yours, is already very low.

Even though some companies advertise that vitamins and supplements can help your CD4 count, these are scams. There is no such thing as an “immune booster” and no “immune booster” will help your CD4 count or help control HIV.

You should consider giving ARVs a try as they have proven to be effective over the years. ARVs stop HIV from replicating.  The main aim is to reduce your viral load to an undetectable level (less than 50 copies/mL). As your viral load goes down, your immune system starts to repair itself.  This means that your CD4 count will slowly go up to higher levels again.

Here is a link to more information about starting treatment. 

Note: This answer was adapted from a question on i-Base. Here is a link to the original answer: https://i-base.info/qa/6204

Wishing you the best,
GroundUp