1. Be proactive – not reactive: If you get cold sores, don’t assume this one will be your last. You’ve tried topical creams and ointments. Learn what causes cold sores and solve that problem.
2. Treat from within: Probiotics and targeted, immune-boosting botanicals like those in Sure Nature’s ImmunaSure are proven effective in helping the treatment of cold sores and their symptoms; shortening outbreaks and keeping cold sores from coming back – without side effects. Topical creams and lotions may reduce the discomfort and appearance of cold sores, but they don’t prevent them from reoccurring and may actually make them worse.
3. Trust your body: Prescription anti-viral cold sore drugs on the market can have serious side effects on your liver and kidneys and may actually weaken your body’s ability to fight the virus naturally.
4. Get plenty of sleep: When you sleep your body rebuilds its defenses and reenergizes you, creating a strong, healthy immune system. Most healthy adults are built for 16 hours of wakefulness and need an average of eight hours of sleep per night. Being well rested improves your appearance and your ability to handle stress, and stress is a key contributor to cold sore outbreaks.
5. Cut the sugar: Cold sores tend to emerge when your body is too acidic. Alcohol, soda pop and sweet foods tend to acidify the system and make cold sores happen more often.
6. Eat smart (and wide): A balanced diet reduces the likelihood of cold sore outbreaks and lessens their duration and makes you feel better. Eating a wide variety of foods ensures your body gets all the nutrients it needs and your meals become more interesting and enjoyable (which also reduces stress).
7. Buy organic: Organic foods help alkalinize your blood by supplying more trace minerals which reduces acidity thereby reducing outbreaks. Organic foods also have more nutritional value – including more vitamin C and higher quality protein content – simultaneously reducing the toxic stress on your system and boosting your defenses against toxins.
8. Go for a (brisk) walk: Exercising increases the level of white blood cells in the blood; but don't overdo it. Strenuous exercise can temporarily dampen the immune response. As in most things, moderation is the key.
9. Skip the sunburn: Cold sore outbreaks are often triggered by too much sun exposure. Over-heating can do the same. If you love to spend time in the sun as a stress reducer, don’t over do it.
10. Smile: Depression is associated with a decrease in immune function. By eating well, getting enough sleep and helping your body fight off illness, you’ll decrease the stress in your life and enjoy a healthier, happier existence.
