Oct 06 2009
Mononucleosis Treatment – Cravings and Overeating Strategies
When you are under stress from an illness like Epstein Barr (the virus that causes mono), a deficiency in brain chemicals can lead to depression, apathy and mood swings. The result can be a vicious cycle of binge and comfort eating.
So how do you go about optimizing levels of brain chemicals and hormones in order to regulate your appetite and stop cravings in their tracks? There are 5 strategies which I use effectively with my patients.
Mononucleosis Treatment and Cravings Strategy 1 – Stabilize your blood sugar
By following a pattern of regular, balanced meals, you will be providing a constant supply of fuel and nutrients to your brain. Remember never to skip meals or go too long between meals. This just perpetuates the cycle of food cravings and overeating.
Ensure you are eating a protein with a low glycaemic carbohydrate for each meal. Protein supplies the amino acid tryptophan which helps produce serotonin – a “feel good” chemical. Carbohydrate, preferably in a complex form like vegetables or whole grains, helps to move tryptophan into the brain.
By eating to stabilize your blood sugar, the effects of other hormones which act to control appetite are optimized. For example, the hormone cholecystokinin is released from the small intestine as a response to food, and acts to reduce appetite. This message takes time – at least 20 minutes before the brain registers, so eat slowly!
Mononucleosis Treatment and Cravings Strategy 2 – Nutritional supplementation
The brain needs a good supply of magnesium, zinc, folic acid, and the vitamins B6 and B12 to make serotonin and the other brain chemicals. The Omega 3 and 6 essential fatty acids are also essential for optimal brain function. Herbs to use as alternatives to prescription drugs include Hypericum perforatum (St Johns Wort), Gingko biloba and Passiflora incarnata.
Mononucleosis Treatment and Cravings Strategy 3 – Manage your stress
Since we know that a high stress lifestyle will reduce your levels of serotonin, it is essential to manage your stress effectively. Techniques like meditation, yoga and visualization are good starting points.
Mononucleosis Treatment and Cravings Strategy 4 – Exercise regularly
Exercise has been shown to boost levels of brain chemicals including beta-endorhin and serotonin. Do it regularly!
Mononucleosis Treatment and Cravings Strategy 5 – Detoxify your body
Toxins in the body upset the delicate hormonal balance of your body and must be dealt with in an optimal mononucleosis treatment plan. Gastrointestinal and liver toxicity affect brain function adversely. If left untreated it will lead to food intolerances and allergies which perpetuate the cycle of craving and overeating.
For further information on mononucleosis treatment and how to reduce cravings please refer to the ebook “Nature’s Amazing Mononucleosis Cures” by qualified naturopath Elizabeth Noble.
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