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Diet for Glandular Fever

Jun 14, 2011 | By Carson Boddicker
Diet for Glandular Fever
Photo Credit Chris Ted/Digital Vision/Getty Images

Glandular fever, more commonly known as mononucleosis, is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus. Epstein-Barr virus is a strain of the herpes virus and causes a variety of symptoms including fever, sore throat and swollen lymph glands. In the long term, glandular fever can result in overwhelming fatigue lasting longer than six months, according to MedlinePlus. While there is not a great deal that can be done because this condition is caused by a virus, some dietary strategies may be helpful in the recovery process.

Carbohydrates

Diets most helpful with glandular fever have sufferers contain whole grains, fruits, and vegetables as the primary source of carbohydrates. Processed, pre-packaged foods such as candy bars and snack cakes can increase production of inflammatory cells, making the illness worse. Foods high in sugars can also upset the delicate balance of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis hormones, vital to systemic health, and can increase feelings of fatigue, according to researchers at the Life Extension Foundation. In his book "Adrenal Fatigue," Dr. James Wilson notes food sensitivities are increasingly common and may present as a problem with glandular fatigue, so choosing gluten-free grain sources such as rice, quinoa and millet may aid the recovery process.

Proteins

Glandular fever sufferers often display deficiency in certain amino acids -- the building blocks of proteins -- that can contribute to fatigue and inhibit the function of the immune system. L-glutamine, an amino acid important for supporting organ and muscle health, is often depleted in those with excessive fatigue, notes the Life Extension Foundation. Particular proteins, such as whey protein -- a component of many dairy products -- can help boost the immune system in glandular fatigue sufferers according to Dr. Jonny Bowden, a clinical nutrition specialist. Attempt to get at least 1 g of protein per pound of body weight while dealing with glandular fever to ensure your body gets enough of the vital nutrient.

Fats

Essential fatty acids can help the glandular fever sufferer by reducing overall inflammation, normalizing red blood cells, and improving the function of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, according to Dr. Wilson. While the value of essential fats is generally accepted, research by Dr. Gary Warren in 1999 demonstrated no significant changes in perceived symptoms following three months of treatment. Potentially improve your recovery process by consuming cold water fish like salmon and sardines regularly and consider taking a supplement of 2 to 5 g of fish oil each day.

Magnesium-Rich Foods

Magnesium is involved in at least 350 individual reactions that take place within the body and is utilized by nearly every cell in the body. Research by the Life Extension Foundation suggests that increasing magnesium levels during glandular fever recovery can improve the health of blood cells, reduce fatigue and facilitate good sleep. Enjoy foods high in magnesium including spinach, cashews, almonds, pumpkin seeds and dark chocolates, says Dr. Bowden.

B Vitamins

The gamut of B vitamins is essential for proper cell division, energy and blood cell health, and can reduce the level of homocystine, which plays a role in glandular fever. In addition to supplemental B vitamins, eat foods with densely concentrated B including animal liver, quinoa, peanuts and tomatoes regularly to expedite your recovery.

Warning

Always consult with your physician before beginning a specific dietary regimen in an attempt to manage a condition to ensure that you are healthy enough to do so.

References

Article reviewed by Victoria Dugger Last updated on: Jun 14, 2011

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