A healthy diet, including certain dietary additions and subtractions, is an important consideration in treating your Epstein-Barr virus infection. According to the Better Medicine website, approximately 95 percent of all adults in the United States are infected with Epstein-Barr at some point during their lives. Meet with your physician to discuss all aspects of this natural treatment approach, including the benefits, limitations, possible side effects and potential drug interactions.
About Epstein-Barr
Epstein-Barr virus belongs to the herpesvirus family and is one of the leading causes of viral infection throughout the world. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, if you are infected with Epstein-Barr virus during your teenage or early adult years, you have a 35 to 50 percent chance of developing mononucleosis. Some of the most frequently experienced symptoms associated with Epstein-Barr virus infections include fever, fatigue, sore threat and swollen lymph glands. Some people also develop an enlarged spleen or liver.
Helpful Dietary Practices
A proper diet is an important part of a well-rounded treatment plan to help resolve your Epstein-Barr virus infection. Naturopathic physician Joseph Pizzorno, author of "The Clinician's Handbook of Natural Medicine," reports that eliminating sugar, refined foods, caffeine, alcohol and common food allergens from your diet is among the most helpful practices. Foods that are high in vitamins C and E, such as peas, broccoli, kiwi and mango, might also be helpful in treating your Epstein-Barr virus infection.
A Useful Food
Maitake mushrooms could be particularly useful in treating Epstein-Barr. Dr. Alan R. Gaby, a medical doctor and author of "The Natural Pharmacy," states that maitake mushrooms -- large mushrooms that thrive in certain parts of Japan, Europe and North America -- contain complex polysaccharides that help support immune function. Maitake mushrooms, which possess antiviral action, have historically been used in improving the strength and integrity of the immune system and treating mononucleosis. Scientific scrutiny using randomized controlled trials may be needed to evaluate the true effectiveness of maitake mushrooms in treating the Epstein-Barr virus.
Considerations
Epstein-Barr virus infections should always be managed by a competent healthcare professional. Before making dietary changes to treat your infection, and to better understand the relationship between diet and the Epstein-Barr virus, schedule an appointment with your doctor. A clinical nutrition specialist can also counsel you on what foods to eat and what foods to avoid. Certain foods might interact with your prescription drugs.
References
- Better Medicine: Epstein-Barr Virus
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Disease Information
- "The Clinician's Handbook of Natural Medicine"; Joseph E. Pizzorno, N.D.; 2002
- "The Natural Pharmacy"; Alan R. Gaby, M.D.; 2006
