Mononucleosis
What Does It Mean?
- Mononucleosis, often called "mono," is a viral infection primarily caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV).
- It affects the immune system, leading to fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, and inflammation.
- Functional medicine focuses on immune system support, detoxification, and viral load reduction to restore optimal health.
How Did We Get Here?
Root Causes & Contributing Factors:
- Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV): The primary cause of mononucleosis, spread through saliva and close contact.
- Weakened Immune System: Chronic stress, poor diet, and lack of sleep can make individuals more susceptible to infection.
- Inflammatory Response: EBV triggers an immune response that can lead to prolonged symptoms and immune dysregulation.
- Co-Infections: Other infections (e.g., cytomegalovirus) can contribute to prolonged immune stress.
Signs & Symptoms:
- Extreme fatigue and weakness
- Sore throat and swollen tonsils
- Enlarged lymph nodes (especially in the neck and armpits)
- Fever and chills
- Liver and spleen inflammation (in some cases)
Lab Test Findings
The following lab tests help assess immune system function and viral activity:
| Lab Test Name | Expected Changes | Optimal Range |
| Alkaline Phosphatase | Increased | 45.00-100.00 U/L |
| Gamma Glutamyl Transferase (GGT) | Increased | 10.00-30.00 U/L |
| Glutathione | Decreased | 373.00-838.00 µM |
| Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) | Increased | 140.00-200.00 U/L |
| Lymphocyte % | Increased | 30.00-40.00 % |
| Lymphocyte Abs | Increased | 0.57-3.97 Cells/µL |
| WBC | Increased | 5.5-7.5 10³/µL |
How Do We Treat It?
Treatment focuses on supporting immune function, reducing inflammation, and managing viral load.
Supplement Protocol
| Supplement | Function | Dosage & Frequency |
| Advanced Vita-Biotic R | Supports immune system and reduces viral activity | 1 tsp of powder with food, twice daily |
| Endura | Supports hydration and cellular function | 1 packet with or without food, three times daily |
| D-Mannose Powder | Aids urinary tract health and immune defense | 1 tsp of powder with food, twice daily |
| Vita Microbe | Supports gut microbiome and immune resilience | 3 capsules with or without food, daily |
| Vita Buffered C Powder | Enhances immune function and reduces oxidative stress | ¼ scoop of powder with food, twice daily |
| V-Pax | Provides comprehensive immune support | 2 capsules with food, twice daily |
| Vita-Glutathione | Supports detoxification and reduces oxidative stress | 1 capsule with or without food, daily |
| Vita B Methyl | Enhances energy production and immune health | 1 capsule without food, daily |
| Vita-Candid | Antimicrobial support for immune balance | 2 capsules 20-30 minutes prior to food, daily |
| V-Inflamma | Reduces inflammation and immune overactivation | 1 capsule without food, daily |
| CoQ-10 300 mg | Supports mitochondrial energy and cellular function | 2 capsules with food, daily |
| Vita-Digestyzyme | Supports digestion and immune modulation | 2 capsule 20-30 minutes prior to food, twice daily |
| Vita Defense | Strengthens immune response | 1 capsule without food, daily |
| Vita DIM | Hormonal and immune support | 2 capsules with or without food, daily |
| Zinc | Essential for immune function and viral defense | 1 capsule with food, daily |
| Magnesium | Supports muscle relaxation and immune regulation | 2 capsules with or without food, daily |
| Gluta Protect | Enhances glutathione levels for detoxification | 1 scoop of powder without food, daily |
| SBI Powder | Gut and immune support | 1 scoop of powder in cold liquids without food, daily |
| V-Collagen | Supports tissue repair and immune balance | 1 scoop of powder without food, daily |
| Vita-Biotic | Comprehensive probiotic for immune health | 4 capsule without food, daily |
| Vita-Flux | Supports circulation and immune resilience | 2 capsules 20-30 minutes prior to food, twice daily |
Additional Lifestyle Interventions:
- Prioritize Rest: Adequate sleep and reduced physical exertion are essential for recovery.
- Hydration & Electrolytes: Drink plenty of fluids to support detoxification and immune function.
- Reduce Inflammatory Foods: Avoid sugar, dairy, and processed foods to lower inflammation.
- Increase Nutrient-Dense Foods: Focus on lean proteins, leafy greens, and antioxidant-rich fruits.
- Manage Stress: Use mindfulness, deep breathing, and gentle movement to support immune function.
- Monitor & Retest: Follow up with lab testing to assess immune recovery and overall health.