Unquestionably, herpes is one of the most common infections in the US. If you have herpes, then you can consider yourself unfortunate. Herpes itches and stings like hell when you have an outbreak. The bad news is that there’s no cure for it. The good news is that it’s totally possible to prevent outbreaks. Certain foods are helpful when it comes to preventing herpes breakouts. Other foods increase the risk of experiencing painful symptoms. Do you know what foods cause herpes outbreaks? If the answer’s no, keep on reading.
Dark chocolate
If you don’t want to experience annoying and extremely unpleasant symptoms like tingling or painful urination, then you should stay away from dark chocolate. That may seem like an impossible mission, but you have to make an effort. The main problem with dark chocolate is that it feeds the virus. Dark chocolate contains a natural amino acid, called arginine, which helps the virus develop and even replicate. As a matter of fact, chocolate is very high in arginine. You don’t have to give dark chocolate up altogether, you know. You can consume it, but stick to a small amount.
Shellfish
You love the wonderful taste of seafood, that is, the depth and sweetness. Hate to break it to you, but you shouldn’t be eating shellfish. Why? Because they contain high levels of arginine, just like dark chocolate. Seafood is one of the most aggravating foods. If you’re not willing to eliminate crab or shrimp from your diet, then you need to reduce your consumption. Or eat more lysine-rich foods. Lysine will help you strengthen your immune system and fight off the viral infection.
Coconut Oil, Milk, and Flour
Another thing that you should cross off the menu is coconut oil, coconut milk, and coconut flour. The reason for this is that they are rich in arginine. Raised arginine levels can put your health at risk, so if you’re one of those people who develop herpes outbreaks often, steer clear of coconut oil, milk, and flower.
Are There Any Other Foods That Affect the Virus?
Just so you know, other foods can lead to herpes breakouts. Examples include but aren’t limited to dairy products, meat, nuts, red fruits, and beans. If you don’t believe us, then you should put the theory to the test. However, that’s not recommended because you can have a severe outbreak and be scared for life. If you live with herpes, you can’t afford to take chances, especially considering that complications can be devastating.
The bottom line is that if you want to lead a normal life, you need to lead an anti-herpes diet. In the beginning, it may be difficult to refrain from eating certain foods, but with time you’ll get used to it; you can be sure of that.
