Powerful Nutrients to Support Your Immune System Against Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV)

There are many ways to fight Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and in my last post, we discussed antiviral botanicals for EBV. In this post we’ll go over specific nutrients you can include in your recovery plan. 

Selenium

This mineral is immune supportive and antiviral through its involvement with glutathione. Glutathione protects immune cells from EBV’s damaging free radicals and increases immune cell function. A deficiency in selenium can weaken the immune system, making the body more vulnerable to viral infections.

Vitamin E

This antioxidant is important for protecting our cells' outer fatty membranes from oxidative stress and free radical damage. It can decrease NF-Kb and reduce viral replication. A deficiency of vitamin E can make us more susceptible to viral infection. 

Vitamin C

This vitamin works by enhancing an immune component called interferon, which prevents cells from becoming infected by EBV. Research has found that high doses given by IV can block viral replication and reduce the disease duration and antibody levels. These high doses wouldn’t be tolerable when given orally because vitamin C can have a laxative effect. However, you could try 1,000 mg per day, which may have some benefit. 

Vitamin D

We’ve talked about this vitamin already regarding its inhibition of NF-kB and its positive influence on methylation, both leading to less viral replication. It also stimulates the release of antimicrobial compounds from immune cells including those in the respiratory tract where EBV initially takes hold. 

Lysine

Many of you have probably heard of this well researched antiviral amino acid. It can be especially potent against herpes viruses, of which EBV is one. You want lysine around because it can compete with another amino acid, arginine, that EBV needs for replication. It can also prevent arginine from stimulating autoimmunity. Caution if you have high cholesterol, gallstones or hemochromatosis, which may all be affected with long term, high dose use of lysine.

Vitamin A

This vitamin is immune supportive as it can inhibit infected B cells from continuing to be used in the viral replication process. A deficiency can lead to impaired immune function and cellular damage, making it an important nutrient for not just immune support but also gut health repair. 

Olive leaf

This herb contains a compound called oleuropein that provides antimicrobial and antioxidant benefits. It’s especially useful as a broad spectrum herbal antimicrobial if you have co-infections from other pathogens. 

Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA)

This antioxidant can block viral replication and reduce inflammation, especially in the brain. EBV can affect the nervous system by damaging the protective blood brain barrier. This leads to increased inflammation that is difficult for the brain’s immune cells to “turn off.” You may feel this as brain fog and mood changes. ALA can reduce these inflammatory compounds and protect the brain from damage. 

Zinc

This mineral can improve the function of immune mediators that prevent EBV from taking hold of our cells. It helps in the maturation process of T cells needed to fight the virus and a deficiency can lead to lower T cell activity. 

In Summary…

Certain nutrients play a crucial role in supporting the immune system and combating Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). Selenium, vitamin C, and zinc enhance immune function and help prevent viral replication, while vitamin E and alpha-lipoic acid protect cells from oxidative damage. Vitamin D and vitamin A further aid in immune defense, while lysine can inhibit EBV’s ability to replicate. Additionally, olive leaf offers broad-spectrum antimicrobial benefits, making these nutrients valuable tools in the fight against EBV.

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-Dr. Jamie 

Resources

Kines, K. (2018). The Epstein-Barr virus solution: The hidden undiagnosed epidemic of chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, and autoimmune disease - how to heal and regain your life. Holistic Nutrition Press

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