Impact of eating habits, supplements?

P.S. I have started taking multivitamins and fish oils again, and am trying out bee prop0lis and certain herbal teas in the evenings. Those are the only changes I've made.

Some people swear by lysine, even though past studies have been conflicting or can't be replicated, so it doesn't hurt to try. One study showed that lysine may reduce outbreak frequency, but not outbreak severity/duration. The big names in herpes treatment/research, like Dr Handsfield (ASHA) and Terri Warren (Westover Heights), don't recommend it, though (but they don't say not to take it either). Dr Handsfield even referred it as "quackery" on MedHelp! Just note that lysine doesn't reduce viral shedding, so is not effective for reducing transmission.

Here's what it says on the American Sexual Heath Association (ASHA) website about lysine and arginine:

"People often ask about an amino acid by the name of lysine (L-lysine), because of Internet claims or claims from other people that it helps control outbreaks. While some studies have suggested that lysine supplements can reduce the frequency of recurrences or healing time, other trials have been unable to replicate those results. Therefore, there is not sufficient information to discern how effective it may be, in addition to what the effective dosages or frequency of L-lysine may be.

"Lysine can be found with other nutrients and supplements at your local grocery or drug store, but people should only take the recommended dosage if it is taken and always check with their health care provider first before starting any new medication or supplement. Megadoses of lysine may throw other amino acids out of balance and interfere with the absorption of other nutrients such as vitamins and minerals.

"In regard to possible foods to avoid, some people feel that foods that contain high amounts of the amino acid arginine may cause herpes outbreaks. Arginine is found in numerous foods that are eaten on a regular basis; therefore, we do not encourage someone to stop eating foods simply because they contain arginine. However, an individual may want to consider adjusting their diet if she or he is having frequent outbreaks and believes food is a contributing factor. Again, while some individuals believe arginine can trigger outbreaks, there is no clinical evidence to support these claims."

Do you happen to know anything about olive leaf extract? Some people seem to swear by it.

I only know that other people rave about it! Not read too much about olive leaf extract, nor have I tried it myself, but I would certainly consider it. I much prefer herbal teas and supplements to meddling with my diet and normal amino acid balance.