The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that as of 2010, one out of six people, or 16.2 percent, ages 14 to 49 years old had genital herpes, also known as HSV-2. While this may seem like an astronomically high percentage, the CDC further states from the year 2000 to 2010 the average percentage of Americans with this STD has not varied. While there is no cure for genital herpes, with proper treatment you may control the severity and duration of an outbreak. Along with medication prescribed by your physician, certain foods may be able to help prevent a genital herpes outbreak.
What is Genital Herpes
Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted disease transferred from one person to another through sexual contact. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports this STD comes in two strains, HSV-1 and HSV-2; however, HSV-2 is among the most common strain found within Americans. During an outbreak, a person may experience visible symptoms, such as a sore; however, genital herpes may be transferred without any visible signs or symptoms, or when there is no outbreak. It is important to note, when this virus is first introduced to the body the person may experience four to five outbreaks within a single year; however, the frequency of such outbreaks tends to diminish over time.
Lysine-Rich Foods
The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests a diet with foods rich in lysine may help reduce reoccurring outbreaks associated with genital herpes and cold sores. The university continues by stating those who consumed the recommended 1 to 3 grams of lysine per day experienced a reduction in outbreak duration and severity. Consume foods such as eggs, potatoes, chicken and fish to increase your lysine consumption. You may also consume lysine supplements. The University of Maryland Medical Center states those with heart disease and high cholesterol should avoid consuming lysine as initial studies showcased this compound increased triglyceride and cholesterol levels within animals.
Antioxidant-Rich Foods
Antioxidants work to combat the damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are defined as unbalanced atoms. Free radicals damage healthy cells, and if gone unchecked, may cause severe life-threatening conditions such as cancer. The role of antioxidants when dealing with genital herpes is not completely clear; however, a study performed by the "Antiviral Research" journal published by Elsevier showed the topical application of an antioxidant-rich ointment significantly decreased herpes sore outbreak duration, severity and lesion development. The Cleveland Clinic as well as the Mayo Clinic suggests consuming foods such as citrus fruits, whole grains, sweet potatoes, green vegetables, garlic and vegetable oils to increase your body's antioxidant count.
Herbal Remedies
While not technically food, the application of certain herbs has been shown to decrease the frequency and severity of genital herpes outbreaks. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports the topical application or internal consumption of lemon balm, aloe, peppermint oil and Siberian ginseng showcased benefits for those experiencing a genital herpes outbreak. Prior to applying an herb topically or consuming internally, speak with your physician; especially if you're currently taking medications for genital herpes or another medical condition.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Herpes Simplex Virus; Steven D. Ehrlich, N.M.D.; September 2009
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Genital Herpes -- CDC Fact Sheet; July 2010
- Rice University; Antioxidants and Free Radicals; June 1996
- "Antiviral Research" Journal; Evaluation of Antioxidant Healing Formulations in Topical Therapy of Experimental Cutaneous and Genital Herpes Simplex Virus Infections; J. Sheridan; December 1997
- Mayo Clinic; Food Sources the Best Choice for Antioxidants; June 2009
- Cleveland Clinic: Antioxidant Food Table
