Just as antiviral medications interfere with viral replication, dietary choices can also interfere with replication (or support it). The herpes virus contains its own DNA which it uses to create copies of itself. Like your DNA, viral DNA assembles proteins with building blocks known as amino acids. Without the proper building blocks, viral DNA cannot successfully replicate.
Research has shown that a higher lysine to arginine ratio in the diet can reduce the frequency of herpes outbreaks for many people. (Arginine is another amino acid that acts as an antagonist of lysine.) Therefore, you should try to eat plenty of lysine-rich foods (like milk and cheese) and avoid arginine-rich foods (like nuts and grains).
This chart (click here to download), calculated using figures from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Agricultural Handbook, shows the lysine to Arginine ratio for several foods. Use the chart for reference purposes. Foods with high lysine to Arginine ratios appear near the top of the chart. It's okay to eat foods with a low lysine to Arginine ratio if they contain only a few milligrams of arginine; however, it would be wise to avoid foods with high amounts of Arginine when the ratio is low.
You can also achieve a higher lysine to Arginine ratio in your diet through supplementation. Dietary supplementation with the amino acid lysine can help reduce outbreaks and symptoms of herpes simplex as well as herpes zoster.
L-lysine, which is the active form of lysine, is the main ingredient in the dietary supplement FRIA. FRIA also contains a proprietary blend of herbs to support the immune system. See About FRIA to learn more about this supplement.
In addition to monitoring the lysine to arginine ratio in your diet, you may also want to reduce or avoid highly acidic foods. Several studies support the theory that diet low in acid may help to keep outbreaks away. Highly acidic foods include beef, beer, breads, carbonated sodas, coffee, fruit juices high in sugar, liquor, pasta, pork, sugar and artifical sweeteners, tea, wine, tomatoes, and vinegar. You should also avoid cigarettes and tobacco.
Whenever possible, eat broccoli, cabbage, and brussels sprouts; these vegetables contain high levels of indole-3-carbinol (I3C), which may interfere with viral replication. And be sure to drink plenty of water!
click here to download a detailed chart showing the lysine to arginine ratio for several foods.
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