Stop cold sores in their tracks

Nothing quite kicks your self confidence in the kisser like a cold sore. And with the weather changing and our immune systems taking a hit, 'tis the cold sore season! Luckily, there are things you can do to stop a cold sore in its tracks and to speed the healing of one should it erupt.

Image courtesy of photostock / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

What is a cold sore?
A cold sore is an outbreak of Herpes Simplex Virus - 1 (HSV-1), a virus that lies dormant in nerve cells. The reactivation of the virus, which leads to outbreaks, can be triggered by minor infections, a weakened immune system, stress, and even sun exposure.

Lysine, Arginine, and cold sores - oh my!
There is a lot of research that points to a strong relationship between lysine, arginine, and cold sore outbreaks. Arginine can stimulate the replication of the virus. Lysine blocks arginine offering antiviral support. How can you make this work for you?

Try to balance arginine and lysine naturally in your diet
Foods high in arginine include chocolate, peanuts, seeds, almonds, and other nuts. Foods high in lysine inclde most vegetables, legumes, fish, turkey, and chicken. Nuts and seeds are incredibly rich in nutrients and healthy fats, but just try and make sure that in addition to eating them, you're also eating a diet rich in vegetables, legumes, and other lysine-rich foods.
Supplement with lysine when you feel a cold sore coming on
You know that familiar tingly feeling in your lip that usually spells a cold sore in your near future? When you start to feel that sensation, supplement with lysine and cut back on arginine-rich foods. A short-term therapeutic dose of lysine is 3 g a day, ideally taken over three doses.

Here's wishing you a cold sore-less season

Selene

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