Free radicals stress the immune system by damaging DNA, killing cells and changing various chemicals in the body. By neutralizing the free radicals, the body successfully prevents damage to cells. Deficiencies of folate and possibly the antioxidants, vitamin C, E and beta-carotene may also be linked to an increased risk of cervical dysplasia in women. However, it is safe to say that when it comes to getting enough vitamins, minerals and other nutrients, women with HIV face a big challenge. A woman's body makes her more likely, compared to a man, to suffer from nutrient deficiencies during various transitions of her life such as puberty, pregnancy and menopause.
Women also go on weight loss diets, repeatedly and often.
The average daily caloric intake for women in the U.S. is 1400 to 1800 calories, compared to more than 2500 calories for men. Intake through better eating is preferable. That's because vitamins and minerals work together with other nutrients found in protein, carbohydrates, fat and water. A good reason to try to get as much nutrients as possible from food is that there may be other components in food that are not in supplements. Nutrients in foods are more powerful and will produce fewer side effects, compared to the pill or capsule form of the same nutrient.