Mononucleosis is a viral infection causing swollen lymph glands (especially in the neck), sore throat and fever, sore throat. It is often associated with Epstein Barr virus (herpes virus related to the agents that cause chicken pox and cold sores) but can also be caused by other organisms such as cytomegalovirus (CMV).
Most people get mono at some point in their lives, usually during childhood. Often, the disease so mild that youngsters don’t even know they’re infected. The virus then stays in the body for life, typically causing no further trouble. It appears that the older you are when you first catch mono, the worse your symptoms can become. Some people, who are run down or whose immune systems are depressed, can get quite sick with mono.
The best treatment is rest, at least for the duration of the fatigue – usually a week or two. Because of the risk of Reye’s Syndrome, children and teens with fever should not be given aspirin. It is advisable to avoid sports, exercise and other physical activities for about 3 to 4 weeks after infection starts. Moving around too much puts you at risk of rupturing your spleen so wait until you get the go-ahead from your doctor before resuming physical activities.1
Mono may begin slowly with fatigue, a general ill feeling, headache, and sore throat. The sore throat slowly gets worse. Tonsils become swollen and develop a whitish-yellow covering. The lymph nodes in the neck are frequently painful and swollen. People with mononucleosis may be contagious while they have symptoms and for up to a few months afterwards. How long someone with the disease is contagious varies. The virus can live for several hours outside the body. Avoid kissing or sharing utensils if you or someone close to you has mono.
Symptoms of Mononucleosis include:
- Loss of appetite
- Sore throat
- Drowsiness
- Fever
- Muscle aches or stiffness
- Swollen lymph nodes, especially in the neck and armpit
Diet
As with any viral illness, immune-boosting foods are vital. Soups with a bone broth base and lots of leafy green organic vegetables, onions, pastured meat and garlic are optimal. Avoid pasteurized dairy and processed foods and sugars. Keep hydrated with water, ideally with Performance or lemon, orange, and/or cucumber slices soaking in water for electrolytes. Also, try to avoid caffeinated drinks like coffee, tea, and soft drinks. Alcohol also should be avoided. Food that helps boost a person’s immune system are a must, and this includes food rich in vitamin A, B complex, Vitamin C, potassium and calcium magnesium.2
Apple Cider Vinegar: 3 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar and a dash of honey in a cup of warm water helps alleviate sore throat.
Coconut oil is antiviral, antifungal (kills yeast too) and antibacterial. It attacks and kills viruses that have a lipid (fatty) coating, such as herpes, HIV, hepatitis C, the flu, and mononucleosis.3 1 Tbsp. virgin organic coconut oil taken in the morning and again at night can help lessen illness time.
Supplements
Contains vitamin A, D and omega-3 fatty acids. Vitamin A and D are the two most important nutrients for fighting a virus.
Boosts the immune system and helps the body dispose of the virus.
3. VSL#3
70-80% of your immune system is in your digestive tract. Having a healthy population of good bacteria is crucial for quick recovery.
B6, Folate and B12 in particular are needed in high amounts for keeping inflammation down, and like vitamin A, are used up in high amounts during a viral infection.
5. Liver DTX
Schizandra and Reishi extract have strong antiviral properties and give the immune system a kick. The entire formula assists the liver by helping dispose of the virus and any toxic byproducts.
Zinc is used up in high amounts when the immune system is under heavy stress.
Sources
1. http://www.drweil.com/drw/u/id/QAA52679
2. http://www.simple-remedies.com/home-remedies/mononucleosis/mononucleosis-diet.html
3. http://www.mnwelldir.org/docs/nutrition/coconut.htm
