Foods That Lower the Frequency of Your Herpes Outbreaks

Herpes simplex virus is not a medical condition usually associated with diet; however, outbreaks of this painful herpes virus have been linked to 2 amino acids. While this research is not conclusive, those who suffer from this virus are usually willing to try any remedy that may reduce the frequency and severity of outbreaks of the painful herpes blisters.

There are two types of the herpes simplex virus. Herpes simplex 1 is more common and manifests in cold sores or fever blisters that form around the mouth. Herpes simplex 2 outbreaks are generally found around the genitals. However, both forms can result in painful blisters around the mouth or genitals.

You should be aware that this herpes simplex virus is very contagious. Once you have herpes, you will normally always have it. While it may be dormant, it does not go away, but outbreaks usually diminish over time.

Medical research has detected that people with viral diseases, like herpes simplex virus, can benefit from a diet high in lysine and low in arginine. Lysine is an essential amino acid, which means it can't be synthesized in the body and must be consumed through food or supplementation. This amino acid slows down viral replication and therefore, scientists say that a diet rich in lysine can reduce the severity and frequency of herpes outbreaks.

Lysine is found in many foods, good sources include:
* beef
* cheese
* eggs
* potatoes
* soybeans
* fish
* dairy products

The second amino acid that has been associated with the herpes virus is arginine. The virus needs this amino acid to replicate and so a diet low in arginine can inhibit herpes. Foods high in arginine are:
* legumes
* nuts
* whole grains

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