Cold sores, also known as fever blisters or oral herpes, are small blisters that form on or around the mouth. They are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), typically HSV-1, and are highly contagious. Once infected, the virus remains dormant in the body and can reactivate, leading to outbreaks triggered by factors such as stress, fever, sun exposure, or hormonal changes. While there is no cure for cold sores, dietary choices can support the body during an outbreak and promote healing.
Dietary Choices for Healing
During a cold sore outbreak, choose gentle, non-irritating foods to manage discomfort. Soft, cool, and non-acidic foods are often recommended to provide nutrients without irritation. Smooth options like yogurt or smoothies can be soothing and easy to ingest. Soft fruits such as bananas, grapes, and cucumbers are good choices, along with cooked vegetables like mashed potatoes or mild casseroles. Warm soups and vegetable juices can also offer hydration and nutrition without aggravating the cold sore. These foods help ensure the body receives adequate sustenance while minimizing the risk of pain or further irritation to the sensitive lesion.
Foods to Exercise Caution With
Certain foods and beverages can irritate a cold sore or prolong its healing. Limit their consumption during an outbreak. Acidic foods, including citrus fruits like oranges and grapefruits, tomatoes and tomato-based products, and vinegar-based dressings, can cause a burning sensation upon contact. Pickles, due to their vinegar content, also fall into this category.
Spicy foods, such as those with curry or hot peppers, can irritate the mouth and increase discomfort. Salty foods like chips or salted peanuts can cause a stinging sensation. Crunchy or sharp foods, including hard toast, pretzels, and crackers, may physically injure the blister or scab. Very hot beverages can also increase inflammation.
Essential Nutrients and Hydration
Specific nutrients play a role in managing cold sore outbreaks, particularly the balance between lysine and arginine. The herpes simplex virus requires arginine to replicate, so limiting arginine-rich foods may help reduce the severity or duration of an outbreak. Foods high in arginine include nuts (almonds, peanuts, walnuts), seeds (flaxseeds, pumpkin, sesame, sunflower), chocolate, whole grains (oats, wheat), and spinach.
Conversely, lysine is an amino acid that may help inhibit the replication of the herpes simplex virus by counteracting arginine. Incorporating lysine-rich foods can be beneficial. Good sources of lysine include dairy products (milk, cheese), fish (salmon, cod), chicken, beef, pork, eggs, and legumes such as beans, lentils, and soybeans.
Adequate hydration is important for healing and preventing dehydration, which can worsen symptoms. Drinking plenty of water and herbal teas is recommended. Nutrients like Vitamin C and zinc can support the immune system. Be mindful of acidic sources of Vitamin C during an active outbreak.