The hows and whys of preventing cold sores

They always say prevention is better than a cure, but the problem with cold sores is that prevention really is the best option as there is no cure yet. Naturally it is better to avoid catching the virus that causes them, but if you do become infected it isn't the end of the world as you can take steps that help in preventing cold sores.

Looking after the immune system is vital in this, which may mean making some lifestyle changes. Take a long hard look at what you eat and drink to start with. A good balanced diet, low in fat and sugars and with plenty of fresh fruit and veg is ideal. And if you need to lose weight, do it, while taking regular exercise will help enormously in boosting your immune system and preventing cold sores from occurring so frequently or severely.

Preventing cold sores

Preventing cold sores is a question of looking after our body to allow the immune system to work at full capacity. The virus that causes cold sores is usually dormant, only waking when the immune system is weak. Therefore we can help prevent new attacks by eating well, exercising and avoiding stress and other immune system stressors, such as lack of sleep or stress. By preventing cold sores from occurring we need not deal with the nasty symptoms - the ugly scab that seems to take forever to heal and a general feeling of wretchedness.