Cold sores, also known as fever blisters, are lesions that usually appear on the lips or mouth. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC), herpes simplex virus-1 is the primary cause of cold sores, which are common worldwide. Once they develop, they're likely to recur. In addition to lifestyle remedies, such as not kissing or sharing utensils with others who have cold sores as well as regular hand washing, certain foods may prevent cold sores.
Lysine-Rich Foods
Lysine is an essential amino acid, or building block of lean tissue, that must be obtained from food. According to the UMMC, regular intake of lysine may help reduce cold sore frequency or shorten the duration of cold sores once they appear. Valuable food sources of lysine include chicken, turkey, tuna, cod, sunfish, haddock, pork, shrimp, eggs, brewer's yeast, beans and potatoes.
Zinc-Rich Foods
Zinc is a mineral the body requires in trace amounts. It contributes to bodily growth and development, strengthens the immune system and contributes to healthy senses of smell and taste. According to the Office of Dietary Supplements (ODS), consuming appropriate amounts of zinc may help relieve or prevent skin sores, such as cold sores. The recommended daily allowance (RDA) of zinc for adults is eight to 11 milligrams daily. Foods that provide valuable amounts of zinc include oysters, crab, chicken, lobster, cashews, yogurt, raisin bran cereal, Swiss cheese, almonds, baked beans, kidney beans and milk.
Vitamin C-Rich Foods
Vitamin C, also called ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin with powerful antioxidant properties. According to an "LA Times" article by Amanda Ursell, emotional stress and infections are linked with cold sore development; thus, a well-balanced diet that is rich in antioxidants, including vitamin C, may prove helpful. Vitamin C is found in a variety of fruits and vegetables, including red bell peppers, oranges, grapefruit, citrus juices, kiwifruit, broccoli, papaya, strawberries, Brussels sprouts, tomato juice, cantaloupe, cabbage, cauliflower, spinach, baked potatoes with skin and tomatoes. A variety of vitamin C-rich foods consumed regularly is recommended for optimum wellness results.
Vitamin E-Rich Foods
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin that also provides antioxidant benefits. In addition, vitamin E supports overall immune system function. According to Ursell, regular consumption of food sources of vitamin E may also help prevent or alleviate cold sores when consumed as part of a balanced diet. Rich amounts of vitamin E are present in wheat germ oil, almonds, sunflower seeds, sunflower oil, safflower oil, hazelnuts, peanuts, almond and peanut butters, corn oil and spinach. Since dietary fats also support nutrient-absorption, consuming vitamin E-rich foods with other nutritious foods may further enhance nutritional benefits.
