Epstein-Barr virus, or EBV, is one of the most common human viruses. According to 2005 information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, when infection with EBV occurs during adolescence or young adulthood, about 35 to 50 percent of this population develops infectious mononucleosis. Certain dietary strategies may be useful in treating Epstein-Barr virus. However, it is always wise to discuss the use of diet and nutrition with your primary care provider first.
Mono
It is likely that if you had EBV as a child, when symptoms often go unnoticed, you are not at risk for contracting infectious mononucleosis. However, if you never had EBV, you are at risk for contracting, mononucleosis, or mono, which is passed from one person to another through saliva. Often called the kissing disease, you can also contract mono by sharing cups or utensils with an infected person. Some of the most common signs and symptoms associated with mononucleosis include liver and spleen enlargement, extreme fatigue, fever, headaches and swollen tonsils. Most cases of mono resolve in 2 to 6 weeks.
A Special Diet
Certain dietary approaches may be helpful in treating your Epstein-Barr virus infection. In his book "The Clinician's Handbook of Natural Medicine," naturopathic physician Joseph E. Pizzorno Jr. states that identifying and controlling your food allergies is important in treating this condition, as is eliminating sugar and refined foods from your diet. Helpful dietary additions in treating your Epstein-Barr infection include raw foods, root vegetables and whole grains, such as brown rice. Consider avoiding soft drinks, fried foods and white flour products.
A Helpful Food
Brown rice may be a helpful dietary addition in treating your Epstein-Barr virus infection. Brown rice, notes nutritionist and biologist George Mateljan, author of "The World's Healthiest Foods," has also traditionally been used to help protect your body from free radical damage, promote optimal weight control, encourage proper digestion and reduce your chances of developing cardiovascular problems. Brown rice contains significant amounts of manganese, selenium, magnesium and tryptophan. You should store brown rice in an airtight container for optimal freshness.
Additional Information
Though Epstein-Barr virus infections self-resolve, the use of certain natural and conventional treatment methods may speed your healing process. If you are diagnosed with mononucleosis or another condition associated with Epstein-Barr virus infection, speak with your doctor about all relevant treatment measures. Your primary care provider can counsel you on the possible risks, side effects and drug interactions associated with certain foods historically used in treating this health problem. More scientific research evidence may be helpful in determining the true efficacy of these foods.
References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Epstein-Barr Virus; May 15, 2006
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Mononucleosis; Steven D. Ehrlich, NMD; June 15, 2010
- "The Clinician's Handbook of Natural Medicine"; Joseph Pizzorno; 2002
- "The World's Healthiest Foods"; George Mateljan; 2007
