Natural Remedies and Foods That May Help Fight Off Shingles Outbreaks

Shingles is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus responsible for chickenpox. 

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. 

Can Bacon Help Ward Off Nerve Pain? A Closer Look at the Claims

Bacon has long been celebrated as a beloved breakfast staple, but recent claims suggest it may offer more than just a satisfying start to the day. 

Some sources have posited that eating bacon could help alleviate or even prevent nerve pain. 

While the idea is certainly intriguing, it raises questions about the science behind these assertions. 

Let’s explore whether there is any merit to the notion that bacon could play a role in managing nerve pain.

The Basis of the Claims

The primary rationale for these claims seems to stem from bacon’s nutritional profile. Bacon contains several nutrients that are known to support nerve health, including:

Vitamin B12: Essential for maintaining healthy nerve cells and the production of myelin, the protective sheath around nerves.

Choline: A nutrient that supports neurotransmitter function and nerve signalling.

Fats: The high-fat content in bacon might contribute to nerve cell membrane health, as fats are a critical component of cell structures.

Additionally, some proponents argue that the comfort food effect of bacon—its ability to boost mood and provide a sense of satisfaction—could indirectly help manage pain by reducing stress and promoting relaxation.

What Does the Science Say?

While it is true that certain nutrients in bacon are beneficial for nerve health, the leap to suggesting that eating bacon can directly prevent or alleviate nerve pain is not well-supported by evidence. Here are some key considerations:

Nutrient Levels in Bacon:

Bacon does contain Vitamin B12 and choline, but these nutrients are also found in other, healthier sources such as eggs, fish, and leafy greens. The amounts present in bacon may not be sufficient to make a significant impact on nerve health unless consumed in large quantities—a practice that could lead to other health concerns.

Potential Drawbacks of Bacon:

Bacon is high in saturated fats and sodium, both of which can contribute to cardiovascular issues and inflammation when consumed excessively. Chronic inflammation is, in fact, a known contributor to nerve pain.

Processed meats like bacon are classified as Group 1 carcinogens by the World Health Organisation (WHO), meaning there is strong evidence linking their consumption to certain types of cancer. This risk may outweigh any potential benefits.

Broader Context of Nerve Pain:

Nerve pain, or neuropathy, is a complex condition with a wide range of causes, including diabetes, injuries, infections, and autoimmune disorders. Effective management typically involves addressing the underlying cause, medical treatments, and a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory and nerve-supporting nutrients.

A Balanced Perspective

While bacon might offer some nutrients that support nerve health, it is not a magic bullet for nerve pain. A more holistic approach to diet and lifestyle is likely to yield better results. For example:

Focus on Anti-Inflammatory Foods: Incorporate foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids (such as salmon and walnuts), antioxidants (like berries and spinach), and whole grains to reduce inflammation and support overall health.

Supplementation When Necessary: For those with deficiencies in Vitamin B12 or other nutrients, targeted supplementation under medical supervision can be more effective than relying on bacon.

Regular Exercise and Stress Management: Physical activity and techniques like mindfulness can help manage nerve pain and improve quality of life.

Conclusion

While the idea of bacon as a remedy for nerve pain is appealing to bacon enthusiasts, the evidence does not support its efficacy in this regard. 

Rather than relying on processed meats, individuals seeking to manage nerve pain should focus on a balanced diet, healthy lifestyle choices, and appropriate medical care. 

Bacon can still be enjoyed occasionally as part of a varied diet, but it is unlikely to be the key to nerve pain relief.