According to Phyllis Balch, a certified nutritional counselor, some of the factors that may trigger an outbreak are stress, exposure to the sun and wind, menstruation, lack of sleep, depression of the immune system or high levels of the amino acid arginine. 

Unfortunately, once you have been infected with the HSV-1 virus it is there to stay. It remains dormant (no visible features) until you experience one of the factors stated above, which wakens the virus causing the visible outbreak of cold sores. But even when the virus is at a dormant state, it can still be spread. 

Anyone can get infected with HSV-1. According to the National Hispanic Medical Association (NHMA) cold sores are a common problem in children. If the child’s parent has the virus, and the parent kisses the child or shares a spoon with the child, more than likely the child will become infected. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services states that Mexican American women were more likely to have tested positive for HSV-1 than non-Hispanic Whites and non-Hispanic Blacks. It is said that more women than men get infected with the disease, but according to LiveStrong, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reveals that transmitting the virus is more likely to occur by an infected man infecting his female partner.

To fight back this virus, Natura-Genics® has formulated Canker-S™, This product fights the herpes virus that causes cold sores. Another great supplement is Polybiotic™ which contains echinacea, goldenseal, pau d’arco, and vitamin c. These properties stimulate the immune system which can help prevent outbreaks. You can also apply a few drops of liquid Lobelia to a cotton ball, 3 to 4 times a day, to help remove the cold sore. 

In order to achieve optimum health you have to discipline yourself by lowering the consumption of high cholesterol foods, exercising regularly, drinking plenty of water, resting, as well as taking the recommended supplements. Avoid contact with the affected area until the sore is completely healed. 

References: Balch, P. A. (2010). In P. A. Balch, Prescription for Nutrional Healing (pp. 341-342). Canada: Penguin Group. http://hispanichealth.info.kramesonline.com/