I don't know if this was mentioned already, but staying away from foods that
are high in arginine. There is some more information here.
http://www.globalherbalsupplies.com/herpes/herpes_diet_information.htm
Of course you would have to weed out the non-paleo foods.

Also, taking Monolaurin (lauric acid) can help to prevent and heal.

-----Original Message-----
From: Paleolithic Eating Support List [mailto:[log in to unmask]]
On Behalf Of Kathryn Rosenthal
Sent: Thursday, July 12, 2007 12:20 PM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Re: Seeking Paleo Solution to Cold Sores

----- Original Message ----- 
From: <[log in to unmask]>

> I was about to ask whether this would work with canker sores too.  But
> canker sores, although like cold sores can be exacerbated by stress, are
> an autoimmune rather than a viral problem.
>

It works for me w/ both; have used lysine for years.  Check out the sources:

Source
As an amino acid, it is found in a host of foods and is not normally 
deficient in the diet. Many foods supply lysine, but the richest sources by 
far include red meats, fish, and dairy products (milk, eggs, cheese). 
Vegetables, on the other hand, are generally a poor source of lysine, with 
the exception of legumes (beans, peas, lentils).

Of all the amino acids, lysine is the most sensitive to the effects of food 
processing, such as dry heat. The amount of protein available in legumes and

other sources of lysine can be significantly reduced if they have been 
toasted or roasted.

While many people satisfy their need for lysine through dietary sources, 
supplements are now popular for treating and preventing specific ailments as

well.

Supplements come in various forms: tablet, powder, liquid, and capsule.

Function; Reasons For Use
Like all amino acids, lysine functions as a building block for proteins. It 
is also a key player in the production of various enzymes, hormones, and 
disease-fighting antibodies. It is necessary for proper growth and helps 
form collagen which comprises bone cartilage and connective tissues.

Researchers are exploring the value of lysine supplementation and the 
consumption of lysine-rich foods for lowering cholesterol, improving 
athletic performance, and enhancing recovery after surgery. Because Lysine 
helps repair tissue, it is a good supplement for anyone recovering from 
surgery and injuries.

Lysine is helpful in lowering triglycerides and as an anti-aging factor. It 
is involved in the structural repair of damaged blood vessels.

Recently it has been shown that L-Lysine can inhibit the growth of the 
herpes virus. Herpes virus requires many proteins with the amino acid 
arginine, and lysine competes directly with arginine in many of these 
processes. This competition is thought to slow down the growth of the herpes

virus. While high doses (500-1500 mg/day) are beneficial during the 
suppression of viral growth, lesser amounts should be taken, if taking on an

on going basis to prevent an amino acid imbalance problem.


Kath