What is a common alternative therapy for increasing caloric intake in medical nutrition for HIV?

Anabolic hormones are considered a common alternative therapy for increasing caloric intake in individuals, particularly those with conditions like HIV, where maintaining or gaining weight can be a significant challenge. These hormones can help promote muscle mass and improve overall appetite, thus enhancing caloric consumption.

In the context of HIV, where patients often face weight loss and muscle wastage, anabolic hormones can facilitate an increase in lean body mass and could aid in nutritional rehabilitation. They assist in counteracting the catabolic effects that the virus may have on the body and can improve metabolic rates, leading to better nutrient utilization.

In contrast, while increased caffeine intake might stimulate metabolism, it doesn't specifically increase caloric intake, and might even suppress appetite in some cases. Surgical interventions are generally not a first-line option for managing caloric intake in HIV. High-fiber diets, while beneficial for digestive health, may actually reduce the total caloric intake as they require more bulk to digest, and fiber can also make the sensation of fullness more pronounced. Thus, anabolic hormones are a more targeted and effective approach for addressing the unique nutritional needs of individuals with HIV.