Sexually active men and women are highly susceptible to contracting human papillomavirus (HPV), especially if they have multiple sexual partners. Fortunately, most men and women do not worry much about contracting HPV infections because most infected people do not experience negative symptoms or side effects, such as genital warts and cervical cancer.
However, some high-risk HPV strains are known to cause genital warts and various cancers. In fact, more than 90% of women with cervical cancer had an HPV infection beforehand. That is why every sexually active person should take HPV infections seriously because they could become life-threatening if a high-risk HPV infection leads to cancer.
Why Your Diet Matters in HPV Prevention
Getting the HPV vaccine and practicing safe sex are highly recommended to anyone considering becoming sexually active. But don’t neglect your nutritional health because your diet can significantly impact the strength and viability of your immune system. If you have a weak immune system before contracting HPV, you will have a much higher risk of getting cancer.
A robust immune system is the only possible cure for HPV because it has the potential to eradicate the virus from your body before it progresses into something worse like cancer. The best way to strengthen your immune system is to eat foods rich in nutrients and natural compounds that reduce inflammation and enhance the immune system. That way, you can reduce your risk of developing HPV-based genital warts or cancer.
The Top 7 Foods for HPV Infection
Are you wondering which foods are the best for boosting the immune system to eradicate HPV infections? Here is a list of the top 7 foods to look for the next time you are at the supermarket:
1) Broccoli
Broccoli is one of the most potent foods for combating and preventing an HPV infection. It is filled with vital nutrients and compounds containing anti-cancer and antiviral properties. These compounds include glucosinolates, sulforaphane, and indoles. According to research studies, the compounds can reduce HPV growth and cancer risk.
2) Citrus Fruits
Citrus fruits have potent antioxidants because of their high levels of Vitamin C. Examples of such citrus fruits include lemons, oranges, and grapefruits. Not only can their high Vitamin C content boost your immune system to combat HPV, but their high level of flavonoid compounds possesses antiviral properties to help stop HPV growth.
3) Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids contain anti-inflammatory properties to reduce the risk of developing HPV-based health issues, such as genital warts and cervical cancer. You can consume omega-3 fatty acids by eating salmon, tuna fish, walnuts, and flaxseeds.
4) Garlic
Garlic has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for common health issues because of its antiviral properties. Some studies show that garlic’s antiviral properties could effectively fight and eliminate HPV. Garlic also has anti-cancer compounds like sulfur and allicin to reduce your risk of developing cervical cancer.
5) Mushrooms
Mushrooms are fungi loaded with immune-boosting nutrients and antiviral compounds, such as beta-glucans, ergothioneine, and polysaccharides. Some studies suggest these three compounds could slow HPV growth and cervical cancer development.
6) Green Tea
Green tea is a natural drink with many wonderful health benefits because of its plethora of antioxidants and other beneficial compounds suitable for combating HPV. Have one or more cups of green tea with meals and throughout the day to refresh your body. There are also HPV supplements with high potency levels of green tea extract making them very helpful to your immune health.
7) Additional Foods To Consider
Other foods to consider when building your immune system to fight HPV include ones that into two categories:
- Berries – especially blueberries and raspberries
- Dark leafy greens – spinach and kale are especially beneficial
