Cold Sores (The Sunday Times, 07 May 2006)

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Q. I am fed up with getting recurrent cold sores, I manage to control with conventional treatment but they always come back. I was told that certain foods can aggravate cold sores, is this true. Can you recommend anything to apply topically that is more natural too?



A. Certain foods containing the amino acid arginine (chocolate, peanuts, nuts, seeds, raisins and cereal grains) are thought to be a contributing factor in herpes simplex outbreaks, the cold sore virus, so reduce your intake of these foods. Conversely, wise and wonderful Mother Nature has given us another amino acid called lysine, which inhibits the absorption of arginine and is considered to suppress this virus. Lysine-rich foods include most antioxidant-packed vegetables, eggs, chicken, legumes and fish (rich in zinc to boost immune system). Taking a lysine supplement can speed the recovery process, take 1,000 mg of lysine three times a day during a cold sore outbreak (Solgar’s L-Lysine £6.95 for 50 caps available all good health shops). As regards something to apply externally, Liquorice Balm could be an aide to soothing your lips and reducing your regular outbreaks as liquorice contains antiviral glycyrrhizic acid, a compound that can help inactivate the herpes simplex virus. Liquorice Balm with beeswax and vitamin E (petroleum-free) costs £10.99 for 30g and is exclusively available from the Skin Shop on 0871 871 9975 or online www.skinshop.co.uk




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