May 18 2010
Epstein Barr Disease – Dealing With Weight Problems
In the initial, acute stage of Epstein Barr disease, weight loss is common. This can result from poor appetite, nausea, high fever, digestive problems and extended bed rest. By eating small frequent meals based on proteins and calories from healthy fats, the lost weight is usually re-gained. In some cases a congested liver and unhealthy gastrointestinal tract may need to be addressed.
In the chronic stage of Epstein Barr disease, weight gain is more common. Due to prolonged inactivity and the loss of valuable muscle mass, metabolic rate can drop resulting in steady weight gain. This weight gain can be worsened by liver involvement or the ongoing stress of being ill which can trigger comfort eating.
So what can be done to restore muscle mass, boost metabolism and lose those extra pounds? The first step to losing weight with Epstein Barr disease is to focus on a combination of high protein foods and low GI (low glycaemic index) carbohydrates.
Good quality proteins for Epstein Barr disease include seafoods, free range chicken, turkey, lean red meat, egg and protein powders. Choose a protein food with each main meal. Low GI carbohydrates are those that cause a slow rise in blood sugar. They prevent a surge in insulin and encourage fat burning. These foods should make up the bulk of your diet. Low GI carbohydrates include salads, leafy greens, broccoli, beetroot, carrots, celery, capsicum, cucumbers, cauliflower, eggplant, mushrooms, onion, pumpkin, spinach, tomato and zucchini. Low carbohydrate fruit that can be eaten in moderation include berries, lemon, lime, grapefruit, kiwi fruit and rhubarb.
Foods to avoid when you are struggling with your weight include most of the refined foods which are of little or no nutritional value. These include sugar, bread, pasta, rice, chips, chocolate, cereals, cakes, biscuits, soft drinks and alcohol.
The next step to effective weight loss with Epstein Barr disease is to start a graded exercise program. This will help you regain your muscle tone and boost your metabolism. Aim for a slow, sustained and regular exercise that you enjoy. You could choose from walking, swimming, cycling, dancing or gym work.
Lastly to optimise your results add some weight loss supplements like magnesium, chromium, zinc, the B complex and the essential fats like fish oils or flaxseed oil.
If your liver is sluggish or congested, as it often is with Epstein Barr disease, then a gentle liver cleanse that removes fats, toxins and microbes from the liver is recommended. There are a variety of herbs, foods and nutrients that are commonly prescribed for liver cleansing. If you don’t deal with your liver, then weight loss can be slow.
Epstein Barr disease and weight problems can be dealt with effectively through the correct foods, graded exercise, supplements and liver cleansing. For a comprehensive guide to treating Epstein Barr disease naturally please refer to the e-book “Nature’s Amazing Mononucleosis Cures” by qualified naturopath Elizabeth Noble. Elizabeth has used the principles of natural healing with amazing success in her patients, helping hundreds of patients through her e-book, online support and Sydney clinics.
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