Once you’ve had chickenpox, the virus lies dormant in your nerve cells, and can re-emerge later in life, causing the painful rash and nerve irritation that defines shingles.
While medical treatment is essential during an outbreak, certain foods and natural remedies may help support your body’s immune defences and reduce the risk of recurring flare-ups.
Important: Always speak to your GP or pharmacist before starting any new supplements or remedies, especially if you are taking medication or have other health conditions.
1. Eat Foods Rich in Lysine
Lysine is an amino acid that may help reduce the activity of the herpes family of viruses, which includes the varicella-zoster virus. Increasing lysine in your diet could help shorten outbreaks or reduce their frequency.
Sources of lysine include:
Lean meats such as chicken and turkey
Fish like cod and sardines
Dairy products, particularly yoghurt and cheese
Legumes such as beans and lentils
2. Limit Arginine-Rich Foods
Arginine is another amino acid, but this one can encourage viral replication in herpes viruses. Keeping high-arginine foods in moderation may be beneficial if you suffer from frequent shingles outbreaks.
Foods high in arginine include:
Chocolate and cocoa products
Nuts and seeds
Oats and wholewheat products
3. Boost Your Immune System with Antioxidants
A strong immune system is your best defence against shingles flare-ups. Antioxidants help protect your cells from damage and support overall immune function.
Foods rich in antioxidants include:
Blueberries, blackberries, and strawberries
Leafy greens like spinach and kale
Brightly coloured vegetables such as peppers and carrots
Green tea
4. Consider Vitamin C and Vitamin E
Both vitamin C and E are powerful immune-supporting nutrients. Vitamin C aids in wound healing, while vitamin E protects nerve cells, which can be affected during shingles outbreaks.
Vitamin C sources: Oranges, kiwi fruit, bell peppers
Vitamin E sources: Almonds, sunflower seeds, avocado
5. Try Soothing Herbal Remedies
Some natural remedies may help ease discomfort during an outbreak and support recovery:
Aloe vera gel: Cooling and anti-inflammatory, useful for soothing the rash
Chamomile tea compress: May calm irritation and support healing
Lemon balm: Has antiviral properties and can be used in creams or teas
Oatmeal baths: Can relieve itching and discomfort
6. Reduce Stress
Stress is a common trigger for shingles outbreaks. Incorporating stress-reduction techniques can help keep your immune system strong. Consider:
Daily walks outdoors
Gentle yoga or tai chi
Mindfulness or meditation apps
Adequate, good-quality sleep
7. Stay Well-Hydrated
Proper hydration supports immune function and helps your body recover more quickly from viral flare-ups. Aim for around 6–8 glasses of water daily, and include hydrating foods like cucumber, melon, and soups.
When to Seek Medical Advice
Natural remedies can help strengthen your immune system and ease discomfort, but shingles should never be managed with home treatments alone.
If you notice symptoms such as tingling, pain, or a rash, seek prompt medical attention. Early antiviral treatment from your GP can significantly reduce the duration and severity of an outbreak.
In summary:
Supporting your immune system through diet, stress management, and gentle natural remedies can be a useful part of your shingles prevention plan. Focus on immune-friendly foods like those rich in lysine and antioxidants, avoid excessive arginine intake, and keep stress levels low. Combined with medical care, these steps may help keep future outbreaks at bay.
As a sufferer from Shingles I'll be trying the above remedies to try to keep Shingles under control.
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