Lysine

The Basics

Lysine is an amino acid that is a building block for all protein. In children it is essential for skeletal (bone) development, and helps all ages to absorb calcium. Lysine also benefits the production of enzymes, hormones, antibodies, and collagen. When vitamin C is combined with lysine, the formation of collagen is enhanced. Collagen is important to the formation of bone and tissue along with its repair. Lysine is not produced by the body and therefore must be absorbed from food intake and/or supplements.

When combined with vitamin C with bioflavonoids it is helpful in combating cold sores (herpes simplex) and herpes zoster viruses.

Some of the symptoms of lysine deficiency include anemia, difficulty concentrating, poor appetite, weight loss, hair loss, fatigue, and emotional disturbances such as irritability.

Sources

There are many food sources for lysine including cheese (Parmesan), fish (dried and salted cod), milk, potatoes, torula yeast, red meat, and many soy-based products such as tofu, low-fat soybean flour, and soybean protein concentrate. The soy-based products are especially beneficial to vegetarians, who may find it difficult to enrich their diets with lysine.

Lysine is also available as L-lysine acetylsalicylate (LAS), Lysine clonixinate (LC), and L-lysine monohydrochlorine (LMH).

Guidelines and Cautions

The recommended dietary allowances (RDA) are:

Prior to taking lysine, determine how much the diet provides.

If cardiovascular disease is present, speak to a medical professional prior to taking lysine. Lysine may cause cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood to rise.

As with all supplements and medications, consult a medical professional regarding proper the proper dosage.