During Epstein Barr treatment I see many patients who are underweight or losing weight over the course of the infection. Weight loss often results from lack of nutrition due to digestive problems like poor appetite, nausea, vomiting or loose stools. It can also be the result of the loss of valuable muscle mass due to inactivity or bed rest.
Interestingly the initial treatment for underweight patients is exactly the same as the way I treat my overweight patients. Firstly we do a gastrointestinal tract and liver cleanse to ensure that digestion and absorption are up to scratch. The body can’t absorb any calories if digestion is poor. This may entail using digestive enzymes, acidophillus and bifido bacteria and doing a anti-parasitic and liver cleanse.
The diet I then recommend during Epstein Barr treatment is small, regular amounts of high quality protein foods like fish, chicken, lean red meat, eggs, legumes plus essential oils, fresh fruits and vegetables, wholemeal grains and dairy.
During Epstein Barr treatment, underweight patients are often prone to stress so we nurture the adrenal glands with plenty of vitamin C, the B complex and magnesium. In cases of anorexia or bulimia, professional counselling may also be encouraged. Zinc is often low in underweight patients particularly when undergoing Epstein Barr treatment. Lack of zinc can lead to poor appetite or lack of taste which means foods appear to be lacking in flavour. A course of zinc can work miracles in stimulating the appetite..
Sometimes underweight patients are exercise fanatics. During EBV, the body needs rest in order to recover. Ensuring adequate sleep and rest helps the body to produce adequate growth hormone and build muscle. As you get stronger, I recommend strength training twice a week with some aerobic exercise in moderation every day.
For further information on Epstein Barr treatment and how to tackle being underweight please refer to the e-book “Nature’s Amazing Mononucleosis Cures” by qualified naturopath Elizabeth Noble.