Tag: Shingles symptoms

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly one in three people in the United States will develop shingles in their lifetime. While antiviral medication is the primary treatment, dietary choices can also influence the severity of symptoms and recovery time by either supporting or hindering your immune system.

Over 99% of American adults born before 1980 have had chickenpox and are therefore susceptible to shingles, and while a painful rash is the most recognizable symptom, many also experience a significant loss of appetite during the infection. This systemic reaction is a common, though often overlooked, aspect of the body's fight against the virus.

An estimated one million Americans experience shingles every year, a painful viral infection caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus. While antiviral medications are the standard treatment, dietary choices can significantly impact the severity and duration of symptoms. Understanding what foods will aggravate shingles is crucial for managing discomfort and supporting your body’s healing process.