Cold sores, also known as "fever blisters," are a result of the herpes simplex 1 virus infection. The Mayo Clinic notes that a formation of a cold sore may be indicated by tingling on your lips. Unfortunately, there is no direct way to treat or prevent cold sores; however, there are ways to reduce their formation and the duration of the infection. One of the easiest ways to do this is to modify your diet to include various foods, rich in nutrients that are effective in healing cold sores.
Identification
There is no way to hide a cold sore, or to make it go away quickly for that matter. According to the Mayo Clinic, cold sores usually include fluid-filled blisters. Cold sores are most common on your lips; however, in some rare instances they have appeared on other places on the body like the fingers or chin. You may not experience any symptoms for 20 days after contracting the herpes simple virus. The blisters will crack open and ooze, clearing up in approximately two weeks.
Prevention
Although there is no way to completely prevent cold sores, there are numerous actions you can take to reduce the chances of suffering from the condition. The Mayo Clinic recommends that you try to avoid kissing or touching individuals if they appear to have blisters present, washing your hands frequently and not sharing household items like towels.
Antioxidant Vitamins
Antioxidant vitamins like vitamin C and E can aid in the healing process of cold sores. Both vitamins C and E work as antioxidants to help neutralize bacteria and viruses in your body. Mother Nature says that if you feel a cold sore developing, you should consume a diet rich in vitamin C as it works with bioflavonoids to prevent the virus from spreading. Vitamin E helps to heal cold sores as it enhances red and white blood cell production. Good sources of vitamin C include oranges, spinach, tomatoes, blueberries and red peppers. Vitamin E is found in sunflower seeds, wheat germ and olives.
Lysine
Lysine aids in suppressing growth of the herpes virus, which in turn limits the number of cold sore outbreaks, according to Mother Nature. The University of Maryland Medical Center says that lysine is found in food sources such as sardines, soybean flour, eggs and red meat.
