Herpes is a virus that causes cold stores in and around the mouth, genitals, thighs, buttocks or abdominal area. The herpes zoster virus causes shingles and chickenpox. According to natural health expert Andrew Weil, M.D., herpes infections currently affect an estimated 80 million Americans. While dietary factors can't cause or cure herpes, they can influence the severity of symptoms and can help or hinder a person's wellness. For best results, doctor's guidance is suggested.
Function
Herpes infections can cause myriad symptoms, such as blisters, headaches, fever, swollen glands, difficulty urinating and vaginal discharge in women. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC), nutritional therapies for herpes aim to promote immune system strength so that the body is better equipped to prevent and combat infections. Certain foods and nutrients may also help inhibit the herpes virus and keep it from spreading.
Helpful Foods
A nutrient-rich diet may help prevent or reduce herpes outbreaks. According to research published in the December 2005 issue of "International Journal of Epidemiology," diets rich in fruits and vegetables are associated with reduced occurrence of herpes zoster, particularly in older adults. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains and legumes provide rich amounts of vitamins and minerals, many of which are antioxidants, which in turn supports strong immune system function. Colorful fruits and vegetables--such as oranges, berries, papaya, kiwi, tomatoes, kale, spinach, broccoli and bell peppers--provide valuable amounts of disease-fighting antioxidants, as do whole grain breads, cereals, beans, lentils and split peas. In addition, Weil suggests the amino acid lysine is a helpful dietary tool toward inhibiting herpes infections. Lysine is present in fish, yogurt and brewer's yeast.
Harmful Foods
While no particular food is known to trigger or cause herpes, numerous foods may increase the likelihood of outbreaks. According to Weil, foods containing the amino acid, L-arginine, may promote herpes symptoms. L-arginine is found in chocolate, nuts and seeds. The Cleveland Clinic recommends eliminating or limiting red meat and saturated fats from the diet as a means of improving immune system function. Foods rich in unhealthy fats include fatty red meat, pork sausage, high-fat cheeses, heavy cream, whole milk, deep-fried foods, processed snack foods and butter.
Supplements
Though scientific evidence of their effectiveness is lacking, numerous dietary supplements geared toward herpes prevention or treatment are available. According to the UMMC, supplements such as echinacea, Siberian ginseng, aloe, bee products, lysine and zinc are touted as helpful herpes remedies. To reduce or prevent oral herpes outbreaks, Weil suggests 500 to 1,000 milligrams of lysine in supplement form, taken on an empty stomach, daily.
Risks
Nutrient deficiencies can reduce immune system function and increase risk for herpes outbreaks and other infections. People who struggle with reduced appetite or other factors that reduce proper food and nutrient intake are at increased risk for nutrient deficiency-related complications. According to the UMMC, supplements used to treat herpes may also pose risks. Echinacea can reduce white blood cell count and interfere with medications prescribed for immune system disorders. Siberian ginseng can cause harmful blood pressure spikes. Bee products may trigger allergic reactions in people with bee allergies, and excessive zinc intake (over 200 mg daily) may cause indigestion or, in severe cases, toxicity.
References
- Dr. Weil: Overview and Treatment of Herpes
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Home Remedies for Herpes Simplex
- International Journal of Epidemiology; Micronutrient intake and the risk of herpes zoster: a case--control study; Dec 2005
- Cleveland Clinic: Diet, Exercise, Stress and Immune System Function
