Garlic was used by the ancient Egyptians to treat infections and wounds, by the Greeks and Romans for tumours, wounds and infection, and by the Chinese for fatigue, infections and tumours. In both World Wars it was used in wounds to stop infection, where no other antiseptics were available. It saved thousands of lives helping troops recover from typhus and dysentery and preventing gangrene.

Research shows that garlic oil contains a sulphur compound called allicin which has strong anti microbial properties – perfect for mononucleosis treatment. It can slow the growth or kill more than 60 species of fungi, more than 20 species of bacteria, and many viruses.

When garlic is consumed as a food, a sulphur-type odour can be smelt on the breath or skin as the garlic metabolites are excreted. The recommended dosage is 1-3 cloves a day – preferably raw. Those with a sensitive stomach may need to cook the garlic slightly or use the enteric coated capsules. The odourless garlic capsules may not be as effective as the active compounds may be lessened. If you are worried about the garlic smell on your breath you can chew on a sprig of parsley to take the smell away.

The other option I recommend during mononucleosis treatment, which makes ingestion of garlic a bit easier is to make up ¼ cup each of apple cider vinegar, honey and soy sauce. Pour into a screw top jar and fill to the top with as many peeled garlic cloves as can fit. Alternatively fill a screw top jar with peeled garlic cloves and cover with olive oil. You can take 1 teaspoon of these mixtures every 1 – 4 hours during mononucleosis treatment. These liquids can also be used as dressings on salads or vegetables in everyday cooking. They will last in the fridge for a few weeks after making.

For babies or young children who can’t tolerate garlic or take tablets, a garlic poultice (or compress), can be effective for mononucleosis treatment. Simply crush a clove of garlic, wrap it in gauze and tape it to the soles of the feet. It is a good idea to oil the soles of the feet with some olive oil first, because direct contact with the garlic may irritate the skin. The garlic oil will be absorbed into the blood stream and help fight the infection.

When my boys were younger, I would apply garlic compresses to the soles of their feet at bedtime. By morning, they might have had a slight garlic odour, but the infection had always improved.

Garlic is generally very safe but in some people can cause heartburn or gas when ingested. Because it has a blood-thinning effect it should be used with caution for those on anticoagulant medication or those undergoing surgery.

Garlic for mononucleosis treatment is a safe, cost effective option for those struggling with this nasty virus. For further information on natural mononucleosis treatment please refer to the e-book “Nature’s Amazing Mononucleosis Cures” by qualified naturopath Elizabeth Noble.

Here’s some of the health benefits of whey protein for mono treatment:

• supports the immune system as it contains valuable immunoglobulins
• boosts your body’s production of glutathione – a powerful antioxidant which helps remove toxins from your body
• helps you preserve and build muscle mass. Whey is excellent for rebuilding muscle mass during mono treatment as it delivers bio available amino acids like cysteine
• helps stabilise your blood sugar and insulin production
• accelerates the fat burning process
• prevents bone loss so is particularly useful in the elderly

Whey protein is readily available as a powder from health food shops, naturopaths and online retailers. It is important to choose non-denatured whey protein. Look for a brand that does not expose the whey to high temperatures. This will ensure the vital whey protein fractions like immunoglobulins, lactoferrin and glycomacro peptides are retained. Avoiding whey protein with added sugar is vital during mononucleosis as sugar acts as an immune suppressant. You can get healthy whey protein powders which are naturally sweetened with a non-glycemic extract like stevia.

Whey protein can be simply blended with milk, soy milk, rice milk, yoghurt or water for a delicious smoothie. You can add some frozen berries, banana or fresh fruit for extra taste. Some of my patients who are undergoing mono treatment like to add a raw egg, flaxseed oil or raw coconut oil for an added immune boost.

Whey protein is an excellent protein source that can be used in your mono treatment plan. For further information on whey protein plus recipes please refer to the e-book “Nature’s Amazing Mononucleosis Cures” by qualified naturopath Elizabeth Noble. The e-book reveals how to boost your immunity with the use of nutritional supplements, herbs, homeopathics, aromatherapy oil, diet, graded exercise, stress management and detoxification. Elizabeth offers 30 days of personal email support if you need advice or guidance on your individual concerns.

Nuts and seeds
Raw nuts and seeds are a good source of healthy fats and protein. They should be eaten in moderation. A small handful a day is a good guide. Try almonds, brazil nuts, cashews, pine nuts, walnuts, macadamias and hazelnuts. Seeds are also a wonderful food. Experiment with pumpkin, sunflower, sesame and linseeds. They make a nice topping for a stir fry, salad or yoghurt dish.

During mononucleosis treatment use the unsalted, raw varieties of nuts and seeds, or you can dry roast your own for a lovely crunchy texture. Nut and seed butters are good as spreads or you can make them into creamy dressings with lemon juice and water. When buying nut butters make sure they are sugar-free as sugar can suppress immunity during mononucleosis treatment.

Oils
The healthiest oils to buy are the cold pressed varieties, especially olive oil, canola oil and linseed (flaxseed) oil. They contain the healthy essential fatty acids which are vital in repairing the cell membranes during mononucleosis treatment. Linseed oil and virgin olive oil can be used in a salad dressing, in smoothies or on toast or cereals. They should not be used for cooking which destroys  their valuable nutrients. The essential omega 3 fats are highest in the fish oils. Deep sea oily fish like salmon, tuna, sardines and herring or a fish oil supplement should be eaten at least three times a week.

Butter and spreads
Butter is made from milk products and contains Vitamins A and D. It is high in healthy short chain saturated fat. Tasty alternatives to butter are avocado, tahini, hummus, linseed oil, olive oil and nut butters. Do not use margarine – the process of converting a liquid vegetable oil into a solid mass generates trans fatty acids – a dangerous source of free radicals. Margarine is not recommended during mononucleosis treatment.

Eating healthy fats is an important part of your mononucleosis treatment plan. For food lists and recipes please refer to the e-book “Nature’s Amazing Mononucleosis Cures” by qualified naturopath Elizabeth Noble.

So what mononucleosis treatments can you undertake to help relieve these painful conditions? Here’s a few to get you started…

• Firstly in the acute stage of mono when symptoms like fatigue, sore throat, swollen glands, fever, muscle aches and joint pain are common, the best remedy is best rest. Lie on a firm but comfortable mattress that allows you to rest and sleep well. If your back is sore, you can elevate your legs to take pressure off your back. Simply place a small pillow under your knees when lying on your back. If lying on your side, then place the pillow between your knees.

• If you can manage to get into a bath, a hot Epsom salt bath, which is high in magnesium can improve circulation, relax muscles and bring prompt pain relief.

• For a specific area of pain, you can apply a hot water bottle or heat pack to that part of the body. Some people prefer an ice pack, especially for a recent injury, or alternating heat and cold.

• A crucial part of mononucleosis treatment is the use of nutritional supplementation to support the healing process. For back, muscle and joint pain and inflammation, the most important nutrients are magnesium, the B complex, zinc, vitamin C and the essential fatty acids. For longer term problems like arthritis, torn cartilage or damaged ligaments, the use of chrondroitin or glucosamine are beneficial. These supplements can help to re-build damaged tissues.

• Diet plays a vital role in mononucleosis treatment. Aim for a high protein, low carbohydrate diet that includes plenty of alkaline vegetables and fruit. The use of the essential fats like those found in fish oils, flaxseed oil and raw nuts and seeds can help to reduce inflammation.

• When you are over the acute infection, mononucleosis treatment needs to address graded exercise. To start with, low impact exercises like yoga, tai chi, swimming or elliptical training are suitable. As you get stronger it is important to build up muscle tone, particularly in the abdomen and back. If you have a good, strong muscle tone, you are less likely to injure your back in the future. Exercises like sit ups, push ups, weight lifting, yoga, walking, swimming, jogging and cycling are good choices.

• Before you incorporate exercise into your mononucleosis treatment plan, it is advisable to get the all-clear from your doctor. Sometimes the spleen can remain enlarged. This increases the risk of exercise rupturing the spleen and causing further complications.

Natural mononucleosis treatment can go a long way in alleviating back, muscle and joint problems associated with this nasty illness. For further information on these therapies plus more, please refer to the e-book “Nature’s Amazing Mononucleosis Cures” by qualified naturopath Elizabeth Noble.

The amount of sleep required for mononucleosis in adults is at least 9 hours daily. Some people need more. That is fine – just listen to your body and sleep when required.

Humans evolved to sleep when it is dark and wake when the sun comes up. With the advent of electricity and light, many people have pushed their bedtime later and later, often going to bed after midnight.

Unfortunately when you sleep does matter. Studies show that most growth hormone is produced before midnight. The old wives tale that “a hour of sleep before midnight is worth two after” is actually true. So aim to get to bed by 9.30 or 10 pm in order to maximise your body’s production of growth hormone.

So how can quality sleep be achieved during mononucleosis in adults? Here’s a few tips…

• Firstly make sure your room is completely dark and quiet. Any light on the skin, for example from a night light, digital clock or street light, can prevent the production of melatonin – a sleep hormone.
• Have a wind-down routine before bedtime of a small snack (like raw nuts or yoghurt), a warm bath or time to read a good book. Try to get to bed around the same time each night.
• Viruses like the Epstein Barr virus that causes mononucleosis in adults can affect adrenal function, leading to anxiety and insomnia. To support the adrenals, nutrients like vitamin C, the B complex and magnesium can help. Sleep herbs like Valerian, passionflower and hops can be of benefit.
• Melatonin – the natural sleep hormone can be useful for mononucleosis in adults.
• You can train yourself to sleep with meditation, positive visualisation and the use of sleep CDs.

Mono can be helped with deep, rejuvenating, unbroken sleep. Simple natural sleep therapies can include taking some natural sleep-inducing herbs, nutrients and foods plus doing some stress-reducing techniques like meditation, yoga and deep breathing.

All the tips and techniques to turn your sleep patterns around plus more treatments for mononucleosis in adults can be found in my “Nature’s Amazing Mono Cures” e-book.  The e-book also comes with 30 days of free email support if you need advice or guidance on your individual concerns.

Firstly it is important to understand the role of the thyroid in infectious mononucleosis treatment. Basically the thyroid gland is responsible for regulating your body’s metabolism. If your thyroid becomes sluggish or under active then it has a reduced hormone output. This results in symptoms like fatigue, sensitivity to the cold, dull, dry hair, constipation, poor appetite, weight problems, poor memory, PMT, infertility, muscle weakness, hair loss, depression and swollen eyelids. In children there may be poor growth and in severe cases mental retardation.

These thyroid symptoms overlap with many of the symptoms seen during infectious mononucleosis treatment, so a blood test from your doctor is a good idea to confirm if your thyroid is involved. You can also get an indication of your thyroid health by doing the underarm temperature test. If your temperature is consistently under 36.4 degrees C, then your thyroid is likely to be under active. This test is more sensitive than the blood tests which will only pick up a very under active or diseased thyroid.

So what can you do to boost your thyroid health during infectious mononucleosis treatment ? Here’s some basic steps:

Supplements

The addition of certain nutrients like iodine, L-tyrosine, zinc, selenium and the B complex can go a long way to supporting your thyroid health. Some of these nutrients act as a substrate for hormone production, others protect the thyroid from oxidative stress and further damage.

Liver detoxification

Liver cleansing which is already an essential part of infectious mononucleosis treatment, can also help the thyroid. Chemicals like those found in cigarette smoke, coffee, birth control pills and certain drugs can affect hormone balance so need to be detoxified from the body.

Diet

Thyroid health needs a healthy diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables, quality proteins, essential fats and whole grains. This diet is largely the same as the one used during infectious mononucleosis treatment.

Certain foods in the cruciferous family of vegetables can suppress thyroid hormone production and should be minimised. These foods include broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, turnips, radish, brussel sprouts and mustard greens.

Foods which are known to assist in keeping the thyroid healthy include eggs, parsley, apricots, dates, prunes, fish, free range chicken, goldenseal, bayberry and black cohosh. Iodine rich foods like sea salt, kelp and seafoods help make the substrate for thyroxin.

Pure water

Use purified water rather than tap water. The fluoride and chloride in tap water block the iodine receptors needed for thyroid hormone production.

Exercise and sunshine

A daily routine of a dose of sunshine and exercise can optimise both thyroid and infectious mononucleosis treatment. These treatments will get you feeling good and help you cope with stress too.

It is vital to consider your thyroid health during infectious mononucleosis treatment. For my thyroid patients I recommend an excellent e-book called “The Hypothyroidism Solution”. This discusses diet, supplements, exercise, body cleansing and stress management in good detail. For further information please visit “The Hypothyroidism Solution” website.

Sluggish bowels and constipation are the bane of modern civilisation. When the bowel is under- functioning, it causes toxins to be reabsorbed back into your blood stream making you feel ill and off colour, giving you bad breath, bloating, headaches, low energy and bad skin. It will also make your mononucleosis treatment plan ineffective.

With chronic constipation you slowly poison the system and may contribute to chronic disease like diverticulitis, irritable bowel syndrome, poor immunity and bowel cancer.

I have met patients who only pass a stool motion once every week! Some patients think they are regular. Going to the toilet to pass a stool every second or third day may be regular but it is not healthy. It is still constipation. You should be passing a stool at least once a day.

The easy answer for constipation is not a laxative. This will just make your bowel lazy so it becomes reliant on higher and higher doses of laxatives to get it moving.

Tho best way to cure constipation during mononucleosis treatment is to do a natural bowel cleanse. This involves removing any bad bacteria and parasites with a gentle anti-microbial supplement. Replenishing the healthy gut flora like acidophillus and bifido is the next step. A healthy fibre rich diet, lots of pure water and specific foods like paw paw, pineapple, kiwi, peppermint, ginger, psyllium and slippery elm will also support the digestive system to remain healthy.

Addressing liver function is also essential, particularly during mononucleosis treatment when the liver is under stress from the Epstein Barr virus. The liver plays an important role in digestion as it produces bile which breaks down dietary fats in the intestines.

During mononucleosis treatment, I recommend all my patients do a liver and bowel cleanse. This can be repeated yearly to ensure that your health stays in tip top condition. You can purchase a good bowel and liver cleanser from a naturopath or purchase a reputable brand like the Blessed Herbs Internal Cleansing Kit online :

http://blessedherbs.com/?af=1254&d=single&item_id=3882

For more details on how to do a bowel and liver cleanse during mononucleosis treatment please refer to my e-book “Nature’s Amazing Mononucleosis Cures”. Supercharge your digestive system and reap the benefits of improved immunity, terrific well being and improved health.

Nutrients to relieve pain and inflammation during mononucleosis treatment

The mineral magnesium is a natural muscle relaxant that is showing promising effects on the pain and inflammation seen in mono. Magnesium should be taken as a powder or capsule along with magnesium-rich foods like fish, avocado, raw nuts and seeds, soybeans, green leafy vegetables, brown rice, apples, apricots and grapefruit.

Anti-inflammatory nutrients like high dose vitamin C, fish oil and zinc should be an essential part of your regime. The B complex is recommended to optimize nerve function and help relieve the fatigue that is so common during this illness.

Quality sleep to relieve pain and inflammation during mononucleosis treatment

Restoration of normal sleep patterns is an essential part of the mono recovery process. Herbs like valerian, skull cap, hops and chamomile are excellent to ensure a good night’s sleep.

Epsom salt baths which are naturally high in magnesium should also be taken nightly before bedtime. These baths reduce muscle pain and tension and help you sleep well. Gentle exercise during the day – either a walk, swim or stretching exercises can also help you sleep better at night.

Chiropractic therapy to relieve pain and inflammation during mononucleosis treatment

My mononucleosis treatment approach always ascertains if a patient’s hips or spine are out of alignment. This is best done by a referral to a chiropractor, osteopath or physiotherapist. If a nerve is being compressed then realigning the spine can give effective pain relief.

Diet to relieve pain and inflammation during mononucleosis treatment

I recommend my mono patients follow a low carb, high protein diet based around good quality protein foods and plenty of fresh leafy greens and other vegetables. Sugar, grains and the nightshade family of foods like tomatoes, eggplant, chilli, potatoes and capsicum, should be eliminated as they can trigger pain and soreness in sensitive people.

Anti-inflammatory foods like ginger, turmeric, berries and the omega 3 fish oils (at least 5g a day), should be included in the diet. Remember too to drink plenty of pure water – at least 2-3 litres a day to help flush the acids and toxins out of your body.

If your headaches or body pains are prolonged or severe, it is important that you get a check with your doctor. There may be other conditions like allergy, nerve problems, low blood sugar, hormonal imbalances, fibromyalgia or anemia that may be contributing to your condition.

Headaches and muscle aches need to be addressed during your recovery from mono. They can be a life-draining and debilitating part of this illness. If you need further information on natural mononucleosis treatment then please refer to my e-book “Nature’s Amazing Mononucleosis Cures”.

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.

The symptoms of allergies can mimic those of mononucleosis. Allergic symptoms can include sore throat, fatigue, migraines, palpitations, digestive upsets, inflammation and swelling, muscle stiffness and discharge from the nose, eyes and ears.

If you can ascertain which foods or environmental factors cause a reaction, then you are well on the way to eliminating your allergic symptoms and treating mono.

The most common food allergens 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. If you have a break from these foods, for example when you’re on holiday, you can initially feel quite irritated or restless.

Common environmental substances that can trigger allergic reactions include dust mite, pollen, animal dander and pollution. Typical symptoms are sneezing, runny nose, red puffy eyes, sore throat, chronic cough, asthma, and itchy ears, nose or throat.

Your mono treatment plan for allergies

Allergic reactions often develop from poor gastrointestinal and liver health, so a good cleanse or detox program from your naturopath or health food shop would be a good start. Repairing the gastrointestinal tract with probiotics, glutamine and a fresh food diet is important.

Nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin A, zinc, magnesium and the B complex are vital in helping your body deal with allergies and are an integral part of mono treatment. Some of the anti-inflammatory foods like ginger, turmeric, horseradish, fenugreek, garlic and fish oils can relieve your allergic symptoms when they are bad. Drinking at least 2 – 3 litres of water a day to flush out allergens and toxins in your system is also an essential step in successful mono treatment.

Your mono treatment plan needs to consider if allergies are contributing to your symptoms. If they are, a lot can be done with the use of natural therapies like nutrients, herbs, aromatherapy, stress management and liver and gastrointestinal cleansing. The mono treatment plan is discussed in the e-book “Nature’s Amazing Mononucleosis Cures” by qualified naturopath Elizabeth Noble.