Herpes simplex is the virus that causes genital herpes and oral herpes (cold sores). According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 1 out of every 5 women and 1 out of every 9 men has contracted genital herpes. There is no cure for herpes, however, some factors decrease the frequency, duration and severity of outbreaks. Anti-viral drugs can be beneficial, but even the foods you eat can greatly impact symptoms. The herpes simplex virus needs L-arginine, an amino acid found in many foods, to replicate and grow. Therefore, consuming foods high in this amino acid can incite outbreaks.
Nuts and Seeds
Many nuts and seeds contain high levels of L-arginine, including peanuts and all peanut products, almonds, walnuts, cashews, pistachios, Brazil nuts, coconuts, sunflower seeds and flax seeds. L-arginine is an important nutrient and should not be avoided completely. Simply decrease consumption of these foods during an outbreak or when you're feeling susceptible to an outbreak.
Grains
Wheat germ, whole wheat, white flour products, oats, brown rice and even beer all contain high levels of L-Arginine. The physiological reason arginine increases herpes outbreaks is not clearly understood. However, when people who have the herpes virus in their bodies regularly eat foods high in arginine, they are more likely to experience frequent outbreaks.
Chocolate and Caffeine
Chocolate, another food with high levels of L-arginine, can initiate a herpes outbreak. Additionally, the caffeine in chocolate, as well as any other caffeine in other foods and beverages, increases the body's utilization of arginine, thereby increasing the likelihood of outbreaks.
