treat cold sores
Cold sores can be caused by herpes simplex virus, sometimes they can also show up on the face, near the eyes even inside the nose. The sores can also appear on the genital area and can be easily passed on through saliva and oral sex.
Cold Sores versus Canker Sores
Cold sores are often mistaken as canker sore. The description of cold sores is that they can be triggered by excessive sun exposure, colds, menstruation and weakening of the immune system. Canker sores are just bacterial infections that have small round white areas that are surrounded by sharp halo of red while the cold sores can be passed from one person to another even without the blisters.
Can cold sores be cured?
There is still not cure for cold sores. They will come back and get triggered even with no apparent reason. There are only creams that can reduce the swelling, drying and the pain. Cold sores can be triggered by stress. The anxiety can lead to hormonal imbalance and weakening of the immune system. One of the best ways in reducing the attacks is by taking foods that are rich in lysine. It can help heal and prevent the sores by preventing herpes from getting cloned. Patients need to avoid foods that are rich in arginine.
What does a patient with cold sore need to eat?
Patients should eat high lysine foods like cheese, milk, and yogurt. Avoid eating nuts, seeds, grains and chocolate. Once you feel the first tingle or itch place an ice pack to delay the cold sore, the faster you apply the better.
What to Eat
treat cold sores
Eat lots of fruits and vegetables and avoid acidic foods, the ph balance of your body should be around 7.4 there are supplements nowadays that promise to lower down the alkalinity of the body. Avoid taking tomatoes, citrus, soda and vinegar rich foods. Increase your intake of broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, garlic and onion as well as ginger and beans. You can also take grape seed extract and fiber rich foods. Exercise regularly and practice meditation and yoga to avoid stress.
