Foods and Diet for Herpes

Though herpes is not a life threatening illness, suffering from the virus causes social embarrassment as well as painful sores. Medications are available to help control symptoms. Herpes simplex type one causes cold sores near the mouth, while herpes simplex type two is a sexually transmitted diseases causing sores near the genital region. Often the virus lies dormant only erupting a few times a year. According to MayoClinic.com, various symptoms cause outbreaks to occur including fatigue, stress, surgery and even menstruation. Eating specific types of food may help ease symptoms. Still, it is critical to consult with your doctor about any medical options first as dietary changes may not work for everyone.

Lysine

Lysine is an essential amino acid, a form of protein the body is unable to produce. According to Maryland Medical Center some studies have shown positive results when taking lysine supplements, while others did now show any results affecting herpes. Still Dr. Elson Haas' "Staying Healthy with Nutrition" reports a study where 80 percent of patients with oral herpes state success when taking lysine.

Foods Containing Lysine

Besides taking a supplement, some foods such as meat, dairy and fish are high in the amino acid lysine. Specific meats include chicken and beef. Fish particularly high in the amino acid includes cods and sardines. The book also states avocados, yogurt, cheese, butter are high in lysine. Avocado is an additional food with moderate amounts of the amino acid. If you are a vegetarian, beans peas and lentils provide rich sources of lysine, reports the University of Maryland Medical Center. Be careful consuming a high lysine diet. Though regular amounts of lysine in your diet is considered safe, abnormally high amounts of lysine rich foods may cause gallstones, according to the university.

Arginine

Arginine is an amino acid which actually may help the herpes simplex virus thrive. Lysine actually blocks arginine from allowing the herpes virus to become active, states NYU's Langone Medical Center. A low-arginine diet is often recommended, yet more scientific evidence is required. Foods high in arginine include a variety of seeds such as pumpkin, sunflower, sesame and flaxseeds. Additionally, nuts such as pecans, almonds and cashews have high amounts of the amino acid. Avoiding these high-arginine foods may prevent further herpes outbreaks.

Licorice Root Tea

Licorice root may also decrease herpes simplex, according to "The Encyclopedia of Healing Foods " by Michael Murry. Murray explains the herb contains glycyrrhetenic acid that stops the growth and cell-damaging effects of herpes. The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests boiling 1 to 5 g of root to create a tea. Still, the university states licorice root should not be consumed for longer than one week at a time. Patients suffering from heart, liver or kidney disease, as well as diabetes should not consume the herb. Consult with your medical professional to see if the herb is safe to take.