Shingles is caused by the virus herpes zoster, which is the same virus that causes chickenpox, according to the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. While there is no cure for shingles, Neal D. Barnard, M.D., author of "Foods That Fight Pain," believes that you may be able to manage your symptoms with diet.
Shingles
According to the Mayo Clinic, shingles are red, raw and very painful blisters that can appear anywhere on your body but typically appear as blisters that wrap around your torso. If you have previously had chicken pox, are over 50 and have a weakened immune system, you are most at risk for contracting shingles. The CDC advises you to stay away from infants, pregnant women and others who have compromised immune systems until your shingles outbreak has passed.
Treatment
The most effective treatment for your shingles is prevention. Even if you are over 60, you can be vaccinated against the herpes zoster virus, says the CDC. Your physician will prescribe an antiviral medication for you, such as acyclovir (Zovirax), valacyclovir (Valtrex) or famciclovir (Famvir), to help combat the infection. The Mayo Clinic states that treatment with these medications should be started within 72 hours of the beginning of the outbreak.
Foods to Avoid
Proponents of natural medicine, such as Jean Carper, best-selling author of "Food - Your Miracle Medicine," believe that avoiding certain foods can help alleviate symptoms of shingles. Arginine is an amino acid that your body produces naturally, but you should avoid foods that contain it. Winnie Yu, author of "What to Eat for What Ails You," states that arginine helps the herpes zoster virus to replicate. Chocolate, nuts and gelatin contain high levels of arginine. Yu also advises readers not to consume foods such as saturated fats or refined carbohydrates, because those might cause further inflammation. In addition, avoid alcohol and caffeine because these can weaken the immune system.
Foods That May Help
In addition to foods that you should avoid, certain foods might also help you fight the herpes zoster virus. Barnard states that beans, legumes and vegetables help to boost immunity, which may in turn help you fight off infection. Yu recommends taking supplements that contain the amino acid lysine, or eating foods rich in lysine such as red meats, beans, fish and dairy, as lysine can inhibit viral replication. Finally, Carper believes that eating seaweed might help to combat herpes zoster because it may reduce the spread of the virus. Consult your physician before you begin any eating plan for shingles.
The Interaction Between Arginine and Lysine
Dr. Neal Spurge, author of "Herpes-Free Diet and Lifestyle Guide," recommends combining the approaches of avoiding foods rich in arginine and seeking out foods rich in lysine to maximize your chances for avoiding an outbreak. Arginine is the fuel for the herpes virus, while lysine inhibits the metabolism of arginine, argues Spurge. Examples of these foods that are rich in lysine include mango, apricots, beets, milk and dairy, eggs, fish, chicken, lamb and beef. Conversely, you should also stay away from foods that are high in arginine and low in lysine, like peanut butter, brown rice, chocolate and lentils.
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