Herpes is a common infection caused by the herpes simplex virus or HSV. It’s highly contagious and is responsible for painful sores or blisters on the skin. There are two main types of herpes, including oral herpes and genital herpes. Oral herpes (cold sores) caused by HSV1 is more common than genital herpes caused by HSV2. But, genital herpes is more severe and considered a sexually transmitted disease. Luckily, both of these types of herpes are manageable. Foods can help prevent herpes outbreaks. They’re not only effective against HSV but reduce the chance of developing outbreaks. There are many super foods to shorten herpes outbreaks naturally. Some of these foods include:

Foods with Lysine

Many studies have found that foods with Lysine can help to prevent herpes outbreaks. In particular, this amino acid helps to inactivate the virus that causes herpes. Besides, it can help to reduce the severity of the symptoms and shorten the duration of outbreaks. Lysine can also promote the healing faster. For these reasons, people with herpes are advised to eat foods that are high in Lysine. They can also take a Lysine supplement instead. Here are some foods loaded with a high amount of Lysine:

• Meats (fish, poultry, beef)
• Dairy products (milk, yogurt, cheeses)
• Fruits (pears, figs, apples, apricots, mango and papaya)
• Vegetables (potatoes, beets, soybeans, cauliflowers, broccoli)
• Eggs. 

Related: 6 Different Stages of Herpes Outbreaks

Alkaline foods

Some studies have shown that a diet with alkaline has many health benefits. For example, it helps balance the pH level in your blood and urine. Alkaline diet can also help to boost your immune system to fight off the HSV. This is why it’s recommended to eat foods that are high in alkaline. These foods include:

• Beet greens
• Kale
• Spinach
• Swiss chard
• Bananas
• Sweet potatoes
• Celery
• Carrots
• Kiwi

Foods that are good for your skin

Some nutrients that benefit your skin can help to shorten herpes outbreaks. So, make sure that you’re getting enough essential nutrients to improve your skin. These nutrients may include vitamin C, bioflavonoids and zinc.

Foods that are rich in vitamin C:

• Parsley
• Papaya
• Strawberries
• Bell peppers
• Cauliflowers
• Brussels sprouts
• Broccoli
• Leaf vegetables
• Fresh fruits

Foods that are high in bioflavonoids:

• Rose hips
• Berries and grapes
• Black tea
• Bright colored fruits and vegetables (prunes, apricots)
• Citrus fruits (lemon, orange)

Foods that are rich in zinc:

• Legumes
• Wholegrain cereals
• Beans and lentils
• Pumpkin seeds
• Seafood

Broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables

Broccoli and cruciferous vegetables can help to prevent herpes outbreaks. Studies show that there is a compound called indole-3-carbinol (I3C) in these veggies. I3C can inhibit the reproduction of the virus HSV, thus stopping herpes in its tracks. By producing antioxidant and anti-estrogenic, I3C can also be beneficial against cervical cancer. You can find this powerful compound in broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables, like:

• Kale
• Cauliflower
• Cabbage
• Brussels sprouts

Fresh, raw foods

Fresh and “raw” foods are important to shorten herpes outbreaks. These foods help boost you immunity to fight against the virus that causes herpes. Besides, fresh, raw foods can improve your overall health in many ways, such as:

• Maintain beautiful, youthful skin
• Boost more energy and vitality
• Maintain a healthy weight

The few tips below can be helpful.

• Add fresh, raw fruits and vegetables in your diet. These fruits and veggies are apples, berries, water lemon, carrots and tomatoes.
• Make a salad for lunch.
• Consume 2 to 3 cups of fruit or vegetable juice daily.

Foods that help de-stress and relax

Stress is one of the most common triggers for herpes outbreaks. It can increase the severity and duration of frequent outbreaks. Besides, stress can cause many other negative effect on the body. This is why people with herpes are advised to reduce stress to keep symptoms at bay. Foods can also help you in de-stressing and relaxing, for example, foods with B group vitamins. These foods include:

• Mushrooms
• Dairy products
• Meats and eggs
• Tuna & salmon
• Turkey
• Soy products
• Barley
• Brewer’s yeast
• Green leafy vegetables
• Bananas

Related: 6 Common Weird Things That Can Trigger Herpes Outbreaks

Antioxidant-rich foods

Foods with antioxidants are known to possess the potential to ward off HSV, HPV. Antioxidants help protect cells from DNA damage caused by free radicals. Also, they help enhance the immune function, thus fighting against herpes simplex virus. Foods that contain high amounts of antioxidants:

• Whole grains
• Garlic
• Red grapes
• Tomatoes
• Ginger
• Lemon
• Parsley
• Coconuts

Herpes is so common and can cause pain and discomfort to the sufferers. To relieve symptoms and shorten herpes outbreaks, you can use topical antiviral creams. ProsurX is one of the best topical treatments for herpes outbreaks. It helps clear active outbreaks and provide immediate relief from symptoms. Plus, the cream can inactivate HSV, thus preventing recurrent outbreaks in future. To get the best results, follow the instructions and apply the cream 2-3 times a day. And, consume these above foods to shorten a herpes outbreak and heal it faster.

Related: Herbal Teas that Help Prevent Herpes Outbreaks