Is There a Special Diet for the Epstein-Barr Virus?

You may have heard that you can fight the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) naturally with a special diet (for example, one that contains coconut oil or extra vitamins). Some reports also suggest certain foods might “feed” EBV. So what's fact and what's fiction about this virus and your diet?

According to Whitney Linsenmeyer, PhD, RD, assistant professor of nutrition at Saint Louis University in Missouri, there is no specific diet designed to treat an Epstein-Barr infection.

EBV and Diet: The Facts

“You can generally support your immune system and ability to fight off infection with a nutrient-rich diet,” Dr. Linsenmeyer says.

Symptoms may include:

• Sore throat
• Swollen glands
• Swollen liver
• Enlarged spleen
• Rash
• Extreme fatigue

“When people talk about a diet to help Epstein-Barr virus, they often mean eating to help beat chronic fatigue, which may have been triggered by the virus,” Linsenmeyer says.

Diet for Active EBV Infection

To support your immune system when you are unwell with an EBV infection, Linsenmeyer recommends choosing a variety of foods from each of these food groups every day:

• Whole grains
• Vegetables
• Fruits
• Lean protein
• Dairy

Linsenmeyer adds that common symptoms of mono (like fatigue and a sore throat) may affect your appetite, motivation to prepare meals, or ability to tolerate certain foods. “For those with a sore throat and little energy to cook, a smoothie made with frozen fruits, vegetables, 100 percent fruit juice, and plain yogurt may be well tolerated,” she suggests.

Diet for EBV-Related Fatigue

The fatigue you may feel during or following an EBV infection can leave you with little energy to shop for and prep nutritious meals.

“Aim to prepare just one or two nutritious meals that can reheat well throughout the week as leftovers, such as a hearty soup or vegetable lasagna,” Linsenmeyer says. “But don't feel bad about having a few healthy takeout options on speed dial.”

It's also a good idea to have healthy, easy snacks on hand, such as whole pieces of fruit, nuts, or hard-boiled eggs, according to Linsenmeyer. “Eggs are rich in protein and other micronutrients that can support the body's immunity.”

Can Supplements Help?

Linsenmeyer says overall, there's no good evidence that any supplemental or intravenous nutrients can reduce the risk or severity of EBV. “In general, nutrients to support a healthy and functioning immune system include beta carotene, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, and zinc, as well as the essential fatty acids (omega-3 and omega-6), but they are best obtained from food.”

Supplementing your diet with coconut oil has also been touted as a way to fight off EBV, but again, there's no good evidence that it has any effect, Linsenmeyer says.

The Takeaway

• There's no specific diet to treat an Epstein-Barr virus infection. A nutrient-rich diet is the best way to support your immune system and fight off infections.
• To manage fatigue, opt for easy-to-prepare, nutritious meals that can be reheated, like soups. Keep healthy, ready-to-eat snacks such as fruit or nuts handy.
• There is no strong evidence that supplements or IV nutrients effectively reduce EBV's risk or severity. While key nutrients support immunity, they are best acquired through food.