If you have herpes, you probably take care of yourself in a multitude of ways. But have you thought about how your diet may impact a herpes infection? It’s proven that certain foods can exacerbate certain infections. Herpes is no different in this respect. You can change your diet to help minimize herpes reoccurrences and outbreak severity. Here are some herpes foods recommendations to change your diet.
Herpes Diet and the Lycine Connection
Some studies have shown that a diet that is high in lycine and low in arginine amino acids can help limit herpes reoccurrences and outbreak severity. Arginine is an amino acid that increases growth in HSV. Lycine has proven to inhibit arginine and, consequently, HSV growth. Increasing lycine intake and limiting arginine consumption can help with herpes symptoms.
Generally, lycine rich foods derive from animal products. Some examples of lycine rich foods are: red meat, pork, poultry, cheese, beans, eggs, fish, and soybeans.
Likewise, you will want to stay away from foods that are rich in arginine and high in acidity. Some examples of foods to avoid are: sugar, refined carbs, coffee, fried food, processed meat, and chocolate.
Increasing foods that boost the immune system is also a plus. Raw garlic is one of those super foods that is rich in lycine and boosts the immune system.
Final Thoughts
It’s a good rule of thumb to maintain a healthy all-around diet. Stress is a trigger that can lead to more herpes outbreaks, so leading and eating a healthy lifestyle helps manage the infection. Following these herpes foods recommendations is one step in the right direction.
