Fever Blisters & Diet

Fever blisters, also called cold sores, are unpleasant, itchy red blisters caused by the herpes simplex virus. Fever blisters are triggered by certain conditions, and diet plays a major role in this sore's appearance.
  1. Arginine

    • Fever blisters require the amino acid arginine to replicate. High levels of arginine are found in foods such as chocolate, nuts, beer, coffee, whole wheat and gelatin.

    Lysine

    • Lysine is an amino acid that counteracts arginine. Foods with high lysine content include dairy products, most fruits and vegetables, and meats such as chicken and fish.

    Significance

    • Eating foods with high levels of lysine and low levels of arginine can prevent or reduce the number of fever blister outbreaks an individual experiences.

    Supplements

    • Dietary supplements can help prevent fever blisters and reduce the time a fever blister needs to heal. Lysine, zinc, B vitamins and vitamin C help cold sores heal faster. Supplements that contain gelatin, however, are counterproductive because gelatin can trigger an outbreak.

    Liquids

    • Drinking lots of water can flush out the system and help a fever blister heal. Adding fresh lemon to water keeps arginine levels under control.

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