Battling Cold Sores? Stock Up on Vitamin E!

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The virus that causes cold sores is very common in America, with just under 48% of people carrying it. The National Center for Health Statistics notes that the rate is slowly dropping, which is good news – considering that there is no cure for the virus. A study by scientists at ETH Zurich’s Institute of Molecular Health Sciences has found that if you have this virus, one way to reduce the chances of cold sores, is through higher doses of Vitamin E. This isn’t the only natural approach to cold sores, of course; you should also try to reduce stress in your life. After all, stress weakens the immunity, making us more vulnerable to the effects of viruses.

Oxidative Stress and Cold Sores

Every day, we subject our body to oxidative stress, owing to factors such as sun exposure, pollution, smoking, drinking, and infections. Researchers note that UV radiation from the sun leads to the release of free radicals – which age skin and weaken the immune system, thus providing the perfect environment for cold sores to appear. In the above-mentioned study, researchers noted in lab tests, that high doses of Vitamin E enabled an important type of immune cell (T-cells) to fight off viral infections. If you have frequent cold sore outbreaks, see your doctor about the suitability of Vitamin E, asking for a recommended brand and dosage as well.

Foods which are Rich in Vitamin E

You should also aim to boost your Vitamin E consumption through the foods you eat. Remember that this vitamin is as important for beautiful skin as it is for your immunity. Common sources of this vitamin include nuts (including almonds and hazelnuts), seeds (sunflower seeds), and green leafy vegetables (spinach and broccoli are excellent sources).

Stress of the Psychological Kind

Stress from the sun, pollution, and toxins we encounter daily are not the only risk for a cold sore outbreak. So, too, is psychological stress, which can be a trigger for a number of skin conditions, including eczema, rosacea, acne, and cold sore outbreaks. Dermatologists often recommend stress reduction as a complementary approach to all these skin conditions. Thus far, studies have shown that Eastern holistic practises such as yoga and meditation are particularly powerful methods when it comes to lowering levels of stress hormone, cortisol. Their secret, note scientists, it their strong mindfulness component (i.e. their ability to keep the mind ‘in the here and now’, far from worries about the future or regret about the past).

If you have frequent cold sore outbreaks, try to consume more vitamin E. You might like to start out with a healthy diet, discussing supplementation with your doctor if necessary. Also aim to lower your stress levels, since stress can act as a trigger to a variety of skin conditions, all of which can interfere with your comfort and wellbeing.


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