While vitamins can’t cure diseases, they can help your body fight the viruses that cause them. They give your immune system a boost, which equips it to battle viral infections. What’s more, a strong immune system will also help prevent the diseases from reoccurring. Here are the three essential vitamins to treat herpes.
Vitamin B12
B12 is an essential vitamin, but our bodies don’t produce it. As such, you can only get it either by eating animal-based foods or by taking supplements. Research shows that it’s also one of the best vitamins to treat herpes eye disease.
This vitamin has a positive effect on the blood and nerve cells in your body. It achieves this by preserving the genetic structure of each cell. Moreover, it also helps prevent stress and fatigue. Natural sources of vitamin B12 include dairy, poultry, meat, and seafood.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a strong antioxidant that boosts your entire immune system. It’s good for your bones, your skin, as well as your heart. This vitamin also helps you keep the symptoms of cold in check, thus preventing further complications.
According to a 2011 study, it can relieve the pain caused by the herpes zoster virus. This puts it on the list of essential vitamins to treat herpes. Natural sources of vitamin C include citrus fruits, leafy green vegetables, and berries.
Vitamin E
Like vitamin C, vitamin E is also a powerful antioxidant. It maintains cell structure by protecting the body from free radicals. Furthermore, it also helps preserve your body’s immune function and may even protect your nerves from damage.
A 2008 study found that vitamin E can also adjust your body’s response to the herpes simplex virus. The results showed that lab mice who had higher levels of vitamin E were less prone to developing related health issues. Natural sources of vitamin E include avocados, leafy greens, as well as almonds and other nuts.
Final Word
Your body needs these vitamins to treat herpes and fight the viruses that cause it. Even if you don’t have herpes, they will give your immune system a boost and help you stay healthy. But make sure not to take more of these vitamins than your body needs. If you have any ongoing health issues, talk to your doctor before you make any changes to your dietary plan.
