Foods for Glandular Fever

Glandular fever, also called infectious mononucleosis, is a viral infection caused by the Epstein-Barr virus. Symptoms can include extreme fatigue, fever, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, weakness, decreased appetite, skin rash, headaches and a swollen spleen. According to the website NHS Choices, glandular fever is usually spread from person to person through saliva. This infection usually improves within two weeks. Treatment typically consists of antiviral drugs, painkillers, rest, fluids and a healthy diet, which can ease glandular fever symptoms and aid in the healing process.

Eggs

A healthy egg omelet can help alleviate symptoms associated with glandular fever. According to Phyllis A. Balch, author of the book “Prescription for Nutritional Healing,” eggs are rich in vitamin B-12, a water-soluble vitamin that can regulate the nervous system, ease glandular fever symptoms, improve immune system function and increase red blood cell production. A vitamin B-12 deficiency can impair your immune system’s ability to fight pathogens such as the Epstein-Barr virus. Other foods that contain healthy amounts of B-12 include lean meat, boneless and skinless white poultry and low-fat dairy products.

Citrus Fruits

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Adding citrus fruits such as clementines, grapefruits, oranges, lemons, tangerines and tangelos into your daily diet can help treat glandular fever. Citrus fruits are loaded with vitamin C, a water-soluble antioxidant that can strengthen your immune system, protect your body from infections, diseases and viruses and repair damaged body tissues, according to author Phyllis Balch. Other foods rich in vitamin C include tomatoes, spinach, tomatoes, broccoli, turnip greens, white potatoes, Brussels sprouts, kiwi, cauliflower, cabbage, strawberries, cranberries, cantaloupe and red peppers.

Salmon

Treat glandular fever by consuming 7 oz. of salmon approximately two to three times a week. According to Alice Feinstein, author of the book "Prevention's Healing With Vitamins,” salmon contains healthy amounts of omega-3 fatty acids, healthy unsaturated fats that can decrease inflammation in your body and vitamin D, a fat-soluble vitamin that can strengthen your immune system and lower your risk of developing Epstein-Barr virus, the virus responsible for multiple sclerosis and glandular fever. Feinstein states that a vitamin D deficiency can weaken your immune system and cause symptoms commonly associated with glandular fever such as low energy and fatigue. Other foods rich in vitamin D include low-fat milk, shrimp, liver, egg yolks and sardines.

Olives

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Snacking on olives can help you heal from glandular fever. According to Judith E. Brown, author of the book “Everywoman's Guide to Nutrition,” olives are rich in vitamin E, a fat-soluble antioxidant that can boost immune system function, protect you against free radicals that can damage your cells, organs and tissues and increase red blood cell production. Brown states that although rare, a vitamin E deficiency can weaken your immune system and increase your risk of developing infections. Other foods rich in vitamin E include wheat germ, nuts, seeds, spinach, kale, vegetable oils, asparagus and corn.