Parker (TAYLOR) on 01/11/2026
Since this outbreak was on the right side of my right ankle I couldn't get a close look at it so I used an Otoscope projected on my tablet to get a closer look. That's when I saw pustules and it hit me "ah crap I got Shingles". By then the area was rubbed raw and hurt like the dickens and super itchy. It's now January and these shingles aren't getting better and Today I think I found out why. About 6 months ago I started supplementing with Organic Cacao and apparently Cacao is shingles food. So I thought I would post this on here to help out anyone who might be experiencing the same thing. Here is the results I got from Grok on the subject:
Why Cacao/Chocolate Is Often Recommended to Avoid with Shingles
Shingles outbreaks can be influenced by diet, particularly the balance of two amino acids: arginine and lysine.
Arginine can promote replication of herpes-family viruses (including varicella-zoster).
Lysine may help counteract arginine and support immune response.
Cacao (especially dark or raw varieties) and chocolate are relatively high in arginine. Many health sources advise avoiding or minimizing them during an outbreak to prevent worsening symptoms or prolonging recovery.
Here are some practical examples of foods to limit (including cacao/chocolate):
Instead, focus on lysine-rich foods (e.g., dairy, fish, eggs, and certain meats) and immune-supporting nutrients like vitamins C, E, zinc, and B12.
