Shingles is a reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. People who have had chickenpox and older adults are at higher risk. The condition causes a painful rash on one side of the body or face. The rash develops blisters that scab over after 7 to 10 days.
Antiviral medication can lessen shingles symptoms, but maintaining a healthy diet is also important. The shingles virus thrives when the immune system is weakened. Certain foods can compromise immune function and should be limited during a shingles outbreak.
Foods high in saturated fat, such as fatty meats, fried foods, butter, cheese, coconut oil, and palm oil, should be avoided. Foods low in fat or containing unsaturated fats, like avocados and olive oil, can boost the immune response, helping the body fight the virus more effectively.
Spicy foods can aggravate the discomfort and pain associated with shingles, as the condition can make skin sensitive and inflamed. Spicy foods contain compounds like capsaicin, which can stimulate nerve endings, increasing blood flow to the skin and intensifying burning, itching, or pain. To reduce discomfort, people with shingles should limit their intake of spicy foods.
Foods high in sugar, like soft drinks and pastries, can lead to inflammation and weaken the body's immune response. Instead, prioritize whole, nutrient-rich foods to provide the body with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants for optimal recovery.
Many processed and pre-packaged foods contain unhealthy fats and highly refined carbohydrates. Long-term consumption of these foods is linked to chronic inflammation, which can impair immune cell function and hinder recovery from shingles.
Alcohol can negatively impact the immune system, hindering the body's ability to fight off viruses. Alcohol suppresses immunity by disrupting the balance of immune cells and inhibiting their normal activity. It can also lead to dehydration, further weakening the immune response.
Moreover, alcohol can interact with medications prescribed for shingles or cause adverse side effects.
Consuming essential nutrients during a shingles outbreak can support the body’s immune function. Examples include vitamin A (found in carrots, sweet potatoes, kale, and red peppers), vitamin C (found in oranges, tangerines, tomatoes, and strawberries), vitamin E and zinc (found in sunflower seeds and grains). Eating foods rich in vitamin B6, folate, iron, and selenium can also help the body combat shingles.
Bao Bao (Livestrong, Medical News Today)
