Tag: Diet and cold sores

According to the World Health Organization, over two-thirds of the global population under age 50 is infected with the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), which causes cold sores. While the virus is dormant most of the time, certain fruits and dietary choices can play a role in triggering an active outbreak.

Scientific studies have shown that the herpes simplex virus requires the amino acid arginine to replicate and thrive. For this reason, cashews are not generally considered ok for cold sores, particularly for individuals prone to frequent outbreaks, because they are a rich source of this particular amino acid. This connection between specific foods and cold sore flare-ups has long been a subject of research and anecdotal evidence, with diet playing a significant role in managing the virus.