Please advise. What causes continual canker sores in an adult?
Thank you.

Canker sores are caused by a virus, a member of the herpes virus family. This is a separate virus from the one that causes genital sores, but in the same family. There are a number of viruses that the body cannot eradicate, the two most commonly known are the chicken pox virus causing shingles and herpes virus causing canker sores. All the body can do is control them so they do not manifest with symptoms. These viruses manifest when the immune system is depressed, usually when the body or mind is under stress. So, the real question here is—what can I do to get rid of the painful canker sores? Stop stressing out! Easier said than done.
1. Lysine is the single most incredible amino acid to prevent and treat canker sores that I have ever seen. Five hundred mg usually prevents chronic, recurrent problems, and up to 2000 mg for treatment.

2. The immune system cannot function without nutrients to support all the processes each cell does in the body. ‘Real’ food is critical; processed food depletes nutrients and brings in toxins, which further stress the body. Basic potent supplements are also needed in all of us, as even the best of food may not supply all the vitamins and minerals we need.

3. Avoid bringing into your body the things that specifically interfere with the immune system—sugar is the most common culprit. Mercury from the ‘silver’ amalgam dental fillings interferes with immune system functioning.

4. Other infections or allergies may distract the immune system from its ability to keep this herpes virus under control. Common chronic infections include sinusitis, gum and oral infections, including root canals, ‘bronchitis’, yeast or candida.

5. Reduce stress. Find humor in life. Relax, find the joy in life. Take a walk in nature, appreciate the beauties that surround us. Do the most important, and not always the most urgent.

6. There are some supplements that specifically build the immune system. These include β-glucan, colostrums, certain mushrooms (maitake, shitake). There are also certain supplements that kill infectious agents, including vitamin C (6 to 10 grams per day), citricidal, astragalus.