Mononucleosis, better known as mono, is a highly infectious viral illness which attacks the immune system. Mono leaves individuals feeling tired and weak for an extended period of time, often months. It primarily affects adolescents and young adults. In younger children, the symptoms are much less noticeable. The key to recovery from mono is rest, adequate fluids and a healthy diet to promote immune function.
Mononucleosis
According to FamilyDoctor.org, mono is an infection caused by a virus known as Epstein-Barr and is transmitted through saliva, coughing or sneezing. It is most commonly spread through kissing, sharing utensils or not covering the mouth when coughing. The most common signs of mono are fever, sore throat, fatigue, weakness, headache, enlarged spleen, swollen glands in the neck and armpits, loss of appetite, and night sweats. Mono typically has an incubation period of four to eight weeks, but this time may be shorter in young children. Symptoms of fever and sore throat usually lessen within two weeks while fatigue, swollen lymph nodes and an enlarged spleen may linger longer.
Traditional Treatment
MayoClinic.com reports that there is no specific therapy available for the treatment of mono. Antibiotics are not prescribed, as mononucleosis is a viral infection. Therefore, treatment primarily involves bed rest and adequate fluid intake. As mono weakens the immune system, there is some risk of developing complications. While complications of mono are rare, they do include: anemia, hepatitis, thrombocytopenia, and swollen tonsils. One of the most serious complications is enlargement of the spleen, which can lead to its rupture.
Dietary Approaches
The Cleveland Clinic suggests that there are ways to protect and strengthen the immune system during times of illness. The principal elements necessary to enhance immunity are diet and nutrition, exercise and stress reduction. Two key components of diet are consumption of antioxidants and nutrient-rich foods.
Antioxidants
Antioxidants are vitamins and minerals found in foods which remove harmful substances called free radicals from the blood stream. Free radicals are natural byproducts of metabolism which cause oxidative damage to the body. Antioxidants prevent and repair this damage and improve the body's immune defense. Health Castle states that common antioxidants include: vitamin A and carotenoids found in red, yellow and orange fruits and vegetables; vitamin C from citrus fruits, green leafy vegetables, strawberries and tomatoes; vitamin E from nuts, seeds, whole grains and vegetable oil; and selenium found in fish, shellfish, red meat, grains, eggs and chicken. Other antioxidants include phytochemicals such as lycopene, lutein and flavonoids.
Whole Foods
The Cleveland Clinic recommends modifying the diet by consuming less saturated fat and animal protein, limiting high-fat dairy products and using healthy oils. The most important diet suggestion is to consume additional fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Green leafy vegetables such as broccoli, peppers, oranges, kale and spinach are very rich in antioxidants. Increasing fiber, from whole grains such as rice, pasta, cereals, in addition to beans are also beneficial. Salmon, haddock, mackerel, tuna and other cold water fish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have natural anti-inflammatory properties. It is also important to drink extra water to flush out the body.
