There is considerable overlap between symptoms of glandular fever and food allergies. Sore throat, fatigue, migraines, palpitations, digestive upsets, inflammation and swelling, muscle stiffness and discharge from the nose, eyes, ears can occur in both conditions.

If you can ascertain which foods cause a reaction, then you are well on the way to eliminating your allergic symptoms. The most common triggers seen in cases of glandular fever and food allergies are dairy foods and wheat. Also consider citrus, beef, eggs, cereals, cocoa, peanuts, strawberries, tomatoes, yeast and processed foods. You may be allergic to those foods that you crave most and eat frequently.

The Pulse Test

If you suspect you have an allergy to a certain food, a simple pulse test can help ascertain if you are on the right track. Take your normal resting pulse before eating (usually it is between 60 and 80 beats per minute). Consume a modest amount of the food in question and retake your pulse about 15 minutes later. If your pulse has increased more than 10 beats per minute you probably have an allergy to that food.

Other allergy tests

Blood tests, scratch tests or allergy tests on the Listen System can be useful, although blood tests do not seem to be totally reliable. If you do get allergy tests taken it is preferable to detoxify and heal the digestive tract and liver beforehand. This will help minimise the number of food allergies you react to. There is a strong correlation between glandular fever and food allergies when there is depressed gastrointestinal and liver function.

The Elimination Diet

If you are still unsure which food might be causing your allergic symptoms, you can do the elimination diet. The idea of the elimination diet is to exclude all foods and drinks which are likely allergens. When you are feeling better – usually after 2 to 4 weeks – you can start reintroducing foods to see exactly which ones you are reacting to.

During the first few days of an elimination diet you may experience withdrawal symptoms like headaches, fatigue, muscle aches or irritability. These symptoms are seen in both glandular fever and food allergies, however if they worsen initially on the elimination diet then an allergy is probably the reason. It is worth persevering through these first few days. The end results are worth it. Many patients report a major boost in their energy and well-being around day five.

After 2 to 4 weeks on the elimination diet you should be feeling a lot better in terms of your glandular fever and food allergies. Now reintroduce one new food at a time to see how you react. Try one food every 2 to 3 days in small, frequent portions. If you react to the food, avoid it for another month before trying it again. Reactions to look out for are sore throat, bloating, upset digestion, headache, rapid pulse or palpitations, fatigue, sinus, asthma, skin problems, mouth ulcers and mood swings like hyperactivity or depression.

Once you have identified which foods cause your allergies it is worth avoiding them for a couple of months. On reintroduction, as long as you do not suffer uncomfortable reactions, you may then include these foods in your diet on a rotational basis. If you suffer from glandular fever and food allergies, then do not consume the same food every day.

Most patients with a history of allergic reactions find their glandular fever and food allergies clear up after eliminating trigger foods. If results are not marked then environmental allergies like dust mite, mold, pet hair and pollen should be considered. We will discuss these in our next post.

For further detailed information on glandular fever and food allergies, please refer to the e-book “Nature’s Amazing Mononucleosis Cures” by qualified naturopath Elizabeth Noble. If you have a long history of glandular fever and food allergies then the help of a naturopath or holistic doctor is recommended.

By studying the biochemistry of patients with chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia and rheumatoid arthritis, a common state called “the catabolic state” has been pinpointed. Catabolism is when your body digests its own protein from body tissue to produce energy. This catabolic state can be triggered by stress, poor digestion and infection. In cases of recurrent or long term glandular fever chronic fatigue, the body eventually runs out of essential nutrients particularly amino acids.

Amino acids are normally re-stocked from protein in the diet like meats, eggs, dairy and legumes. Amino acids are used to re-build damaged cells and help immunity. When cell damage is high or protein is not digested well, the only way to re-stock amino acids is to break down muscle protein. Over time this leads to the muscle wasting and fatigue which is so commonly seen in glandular fever chronic fatigue. 

Supplementation with amino acids is showing promise as a way to re-stock the blood with its required levels of amino acids without breaking down valuable muscle. Amino acids supplements are available from health food shops and naturopaths. As well as glandular fever chronic fatigue patients, the research could have implications for athletes, students, the elderly and those recovering from chronic illness.

For further information on the natural treatments for glandular fever chronic fatigue please refer to the e-book “Nature’s Amazing Mononucleosis Cures” by qualified naturopath Elizabeth Noble. Elizabeth has recovered from CFS herself as well as treated thousands of patients through her clinics and online support program.

One of the mono liver tests that looks for liver damage or inflammation is liver enzyme studies. Normally liver enzymes are contained within the liver. When the liver is injured these enzymes spill into the blood stream and can be measured through a simple blood test.

Among the most common liver enzymes which are tested are:

•  aspartate aminotransferase (AST or SGOT) and
•  alanine aminotransferase (ALT or SGPT).

The interpretation of these mono liver tests needs to be in conjunction with a patient’s symptoms and clinical history. Elevations of these enzymes can also occur in other conditions like muscle damage, fatty liver, chronic hepatitis C and medications like pain relievers, antibiotics, cardiovascular drugs and niacin.

Mono liver tests that study liver function include blood tests that measure the level of:

•  bilirubin.

Bilirubin is a yellowish pigment found in bile, a fluid produced by the liver. When bilirubin builds up in the blood, jaundice occurs because red blood cells are being broken down too fast for the liver to process. This might happen due to liver disease or bile duct blockage.

•  albumin

Low albumin levels can suggest liver or kidney disease. Liver enzyme tests are needed to help determine which type of liver disease.

•  prothrombin.   

Prothrombin time indicates how long blood takes to clot. It is another of the mono liver tests that check how well the liver is functioning.

Be aware that the “normal range” of values cited on a blood test is the range for 95% of the population. About 5% of people will have perfectly normal values which appear as abnormal on a blood test. Your doctor may look at your old blood test results for comparison or repeat the tests in a few weeks to assess whether the levels are increasing, decreasing or stable.

If your liver enzymes and liver function tests are abnormal because of mononucleosis, they should return to normal within a few weeks of the acute infection. If not, your doctor may need to investigate conditions like chronic mononucleosis, fatty liver, other viral illnesses, prescription medication or damage to other tissues like the heart, kidneys, pancreas and the muscles.

For further information on mono liver tests and antibody tests please refer to the e-book “Nature’s Amazing Mononucleosis Cures” by qualified naturopath Elizabeth Noble.

Other causes of mouth ulcers can include fungal infections like Candida, emotional stress, drug reactions, injury from hot, spicy or acid foods, biting the lining of the cheek, braces or other diseases including AIDS, diabetes and inflammatory bowel disease. During EBV treatment, if the mouth ulcers do not heal then these other causes should be looked at.

Here’s some effective natural treatments for healing mouth ulcers during an Epstein Barr virus infection:

Mouth washes
To help heal a mouth ulcer and to rinse the Epstein Barr virus from the mouth and throat, gargle and swish some warm, slightly salty water around in your mouth. Repeat three times daily.

Herbs
A herbal mouthwash can relieve the pain of mouth ulcers and help repair the mucous membranes lining the mouth. Useful herbs you can make up from fresh or dried herbs or buy as a tincture include:
Myrrh – an antiseptic, anti inflammatory and anaesthetic herb.
Sage – an astringent and antiseptic that targets inflammation.
Golden seal – an antimicrobial herb that is excellent during EBV treatment. It has also been shown to be effective against oral pathogens like Streptococcus mutans and Fusobacterium nucleatum.
Licorice – this is useful for the topical treatment of mouth ulcers plus protection of the mucous membranes.
Echinacea – a herb with immune-boosting and antimicrobial properties that promotes the flow of saliva – a natural defence against bacteria. Echinacea is also a renowned herb for EBV treatment, especially in children.

Nutrients
Folic acid – a deficiency of folic acid is associated with mouth sores and cracks on the lips and tongue. It may be useful in the treatment of mouth ulcers.
Vitamin C – a powerful antioxidant that fights infection and promotes healing. A must during EBV treatment.
Vitamin A – this nutrient restores the mucosal surface and maintains a barrier to infection.
Zinc – a powerful anti-inflammatory and healing nutrient essential for both EBV treatment and mouth ulcers. Best taken as a tablet or lozenge and dissolved in the mouth.

Foods
Probiotics like acidophillus bacteria modulate the immune response and can compete with pathogenic micro-organisms in the mouth and gastrointestinal tract. An effective EBV treatment plan should always target the health of the gastrointestinal tract and liver.

Manuka honey
An effective anti-microbial useful for eradicating anti-biotic resistant bacteria. Very soothing when taken straight off the spoon or added to a tea.

Essential oils
A couple of drops of myrrh, tea tree, lavender or thyme oil can be used in a mouth wash or added to a tablespoon of aloe vera gel to apply topically to mouth ulcers. Try and avoid toothpastes with sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) as these may aggravate mouth ulcers. A herbal toothpaste based on the above essential oils are the preferred option.

Effective EBV treatment for mouth ulcers can include natural herbs, nutrients, foods and essential oils. These therapies are discussed in more detail in the e-book “Nature’s Amazing Mononucleosis Cures” by qualified naturopath Elizabeth Noble.

In my clinic, I find the majority of Glandular Fever Chronic Fatigue Syndrome patients are struggling with a sluggish liver that slows detoxification and compromises their recovery. Let’s have a look at the role of the liver and how it may be the missing link in your recovery from Glandular Fever Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.

The liver performs more than 500 functions in order to maintain health. It filters toxins from your blood, breaks down fat, regulates your blood sugar, balances your hormones and keeps your cholesterol in check. The Epstein Barr virus that triggers Glandular Fever Chronic Fatigue Syndrome commonly targets the liver. It can cause liver inflammation, liver enlargement, nausea, headaches, dark rings below the eyes and chronic tiredness.

So how can you improve your liver function in order to flush toxins from your body and speed up your recovery from Glandular Fever Chronic Fatigue Syndrome? Lets look at the most popular liver treatments used for treating this dreadful condition.

• The herb milk thistle has been shown in research trials to speed up liver detoxification and bile production (Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality). Milk thistle can also help repair the liver from viral damage like that caused by Epstein Barr
• Dandelion root – helps to filter toxins from your liver and kidneys
• Turmeric – a powerful anti-inflammatory that stimulates bile production and removes toxins
• Lecithin – a fat metaboliser that breaks down excess fat and cholesterol in the liver
• A natural diet full of wholesome foods like beetroot, carrot, leafy greens, broccoli, garlic and onion. Foods to avoid include alcohol, coffee, fast foods, chemicals, preservatives and medication.The fact is, your body is fighting a constant battle when it comes to detoxification. Without optimum liver function you may find you prolong your recovery from Glandular Fever Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.

 For more information on liver cleansing and other natural treatments for Glandular Fever Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, please refer to my e-book “Nature’s Amazing Mononucleosis Cures”. The e-book also comes with 30 days of free email support if you need advice or guidance on your individual concerns.

P.S There are a couple of excellent e-books that I have read on curing CFS naturally. I can recommend the Ayurvedic approach by health practitioner Jeremy Carew-Reid.  Here’s his site;

http://91da2svdwaweo188lmfqbk9p06.hop.clickbank.net/

The other book I recommend is one by Dr. Rodger Murphree called “Treating and Beating Fibromyalgia and CFS”. Here’s the link;

http://e774cvnb0g1sj3c8-l1blcya5c.hop.clickbank.net/

 For Elizabeth’s Naturopathic Profile please keep reading…

 Leading Sydney-based naturopath Elizabeth Noble has won national recognition with her natural health approaches – helping people to regain their health without drugs, surgery or expensive fad diets.

Her comprehensive treatments help people find the causes to why they are ill, and then help them regain their health and vitality for life. For over 16 years, Elizabeth has helped many hundreds on the path to better health and optimal weight control.

Elizabeth is author of the popular book “Nature’s Secrets to Weight Control” and the producer of weight loss videos, CDs and a regular newsletter revealing the latest in health and weight loss breakthroughs. She has recently written books on the immune system and runs an online glandular fever support site. She presents her information in a straight forward, common sense way, so people can walk away with actual tools and apply them to get immediate results.

Elizabeth is able to unite a scientific and wholistic approach to her treatments using her qualifications from The University of Sydney (Bachelor of Science), The University of New England (Diploma in Natural Resources) and The College of Somatic Studies (Diploma in Natural Therapies).

As a member of The Complementary Medicine Association, Elizabeth maintains high standards of patient care and treatment. She also continues to attend numerous seminars and conferences every year to learn all she can about natural health.

Elizabeth has become a personal mentor to many with the benefit of her vast experience and her belief that one should never stop improving their health and wellbeing.

With a passion for healthy living, Elizabeth follows the dietary and lifestyle advice she advocates to her patients. She lives in Sydney with her husband and two children and spends her spare time travelling, bush walking, dog training, reading and doing yoga.

If you would like to re-vitalise your health, boost your energy, lose some weight or strengthen your immune system then Elizabeth would love to see you. She is available for new patient consultations on Fridays from 10 am – 2 pm and 5 pm – 8 pm at Utopia Wholistic Therapy Centre, Hornsby, Sydney.

See www.Utopia.net.au for more information on Elizabeth Noble and her Sydney glandular fever treatments.

Confirmation of the infection is made from laboratory tests including antibody tests, the finding of atypical lymphocytes and an increased total white blood cell count.

Other Epstein Barr virus tests should include:

• full blood count
• ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate or the rate at which red blood cells settle, can indicate chronic infections, rheumatic disease and malignancies)
• liver function tests
• blood sugar level
• TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone)
• urine analysis for blood, protein and sugar

Other viruses like toxoplasmosis, cytomegalovirus, adenovirus, rubella, hepatitis, Ross River virus, Burmah Forest virus or HIV can produce a mononucleosis-like illness, so if Epstein Barr virus tests appear negative then these viruses may need to be investigated

Depending on your clinical history further investigations may need to be undertaken. These could include:

• screening tests for bacteria like strep throat, Lyme disease etc
• polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests for mycoplasma, chlamydia and Ricketssia DNA in blood, and giardia DNA in stools
• Anti-gliadin antibody tests (gluten sensitivity)
• DHEA levels (DHEA is a hormone produced by the adrenals that is a precursor to cortisol and the sex hormones).

Your doctor should be able to perform the basic EBV tests in their clinic. Some of the more specialized tests may need to be sent away for analysis.

For more information on Epstein Barr virus tests and how to treat this illness please refer to “Nature’s Amazing Mononucleosis Cures” by qualified naturopath Elizabeth Noble.

Some doctors still show ignorance and even contempt of this illness, especially when it is in the chronic form. Other doctors still believe it is a psychological problem or “all in your head”.

Many doctors will recommend prescription drugs that may mask your symptoms temporarily but do nothing to get rid of the problem. The majority of chronic EBV patients end up on a medical merry-go-round, seeing doctor after doctor after doctor. They end up confused, frustrated and getting sicker and sicker by the day.

When EBV is diagnosed, an understanding health professional doctor who offers support and hope for a recovery is essential. You need to find a practitioner who believes in boosting your immune system through a healthy diet, nutritional supplementation, graded exercise, restoration of normal sleep patterns and strategies to overcome the frustration, depression and social isolation that the illness so commonly causes. A holistic doctor or a qualified naturopath are both good options.

So where do you find a reputable Epstein Barr virus doctor? The first step is to ask locally. Try your health food shop, natural therapy centre or pharmacy to see if they can recommend someone.

The other option is to have a look at the recommended doctor’s list on;

 http://www.co-cure.org/Good-Doc.htm

This website is for Chronic Fatigue and immune-suppressed patients so the doctors listed here are well qualified to help EBV patients. There are doctors from over 15 countries on this list.

Lastly you can check out forum entries where EBV sufferers discuss the success they have had with Epstein Barr virus doctors. A good forum is on the Chronic Epstein Barr Virus Support site:

http://cebv.org

which has a discussion thread on “Finding a Doctor”.

The help and support of a holistic Epstein Barr virus doctor or qualified naturopath is essential in order to monitor your progress and ensure future relapses do not occur.

Many doctors use the terms EBV and mononucleosis interchangeably. Other doctors will diagnose you with EBV when your blood test results come back positive for the virus but you are not showing the classical mononucleosis symptoms of sore throat, swollen glands, fever and malaise.

Some people do exhibit chronic Epstein Barr symptoms many months or years after their diagnosis. Recurrent Epstein Barr virus symptoms typically include fatigue and muscular and neurological symptoms like muscle aches, headaches, dizziness, numbness, brain fog, palpitations and weakness.

The natural treatment for Epstein Barr symptoms is aimed at fighting the virus and repairing damaged tissues and glands. An effective treatment approach is targeted at:

•  boosting the immune system in order to fight the virus
• repairing the adrenal glands and resting the body so as to improve energy and stamina
• cleansing the liver and the lymphatic system which are often congested.

For chronic ongoing Epstein Barr virus symptoms, attention should be focused on a holistic approach including stress management, graded exercise, regular massages or body work, and a healthy immune boosting diet. The help and support of a holistic doctor or qualified naturopath is essential in order to monitor progress and ensure future relapses do not occur.

These therapies are discussed in the e-book “Nature’s Amazing Mononucleosis Cures” by qualified naturopath Elizabeth Noble.

• the finding of atypical lymphocytes – a type of white blood cell, in the blood. In mononucleosis, these atypical lymphocytes make up more than 10% of total lymphocytes.
• increased total white blood cell count
• antibody tests like the mono spot test.

The mono spot test is a quick blood test that examines the patient’s blood for antibodies present against the virus. Moderate to high levels of these antibodies, called heterophile antibodies, are seen during the first month of infection. They then decrease rapidly after week 4. This screening test can give results within a day however may be negative in the first week of infection and may need to be repeated. Be aware that in children under 8 the mono test is often negative, despite them being infected with the Epstein Barr virus.

Further Epstein Barr virus can be ordered to diagnose mononucleosis in patients who show symptoms but have a negative Mono test. These antibody tests can also be used in pregnant women, immune compromised patients or adolescents who have been in close contact with a person who has had mononucleosis.

There are at least 5 Epstein Barr antibodies that can help determine if a person is susceptible to the virus (VCA-IgG), or if they have had a recent infection (VCA-IgM, VCA-IgG and EA-D), or have had an infection in the past (VCA-IgA and EBNA).

Other associated tests for Epstein Barr

Other tests to evaluate the extent of the disease and any complications include platelet blood count, liver function tests and swabs for strep throat. Other viruses like toxoplasmosis, cytomegalovirus, adenovirus, rubella, hepatitis or HIV can produce a mononucleosis like illness, so if Epstein Barr tests appear negative these viruses may need to be investigated.

If you have been diagnosed with Epstein Barr virus, then the most effective approach is to support your immune system with vitamins, minerals, herbs, an immune-boosting diet, homeopathy, essential oils and stress reduction. These therapies are discussed in the e-book “Nature’s Amazing Mononucleosis Cures” by qualified naturopath Elizabeth Noble.