You’ve heard of protein—but do you know the role lysine plays in it? Discover why this amino acid matters—keep reading.
Lysine (or L-lysine) is an essential amino acid. This means that the human body cannot produce lysine on its own. One must get it through diet or supplements. Lysine acts as a basic building block for protein.
The name Lysine is broadly referred to the amino acid whereas the name L-lysine denotes the L-isomer which is usable by the human body and biologically active. Both the names are the same in case of supplement and dietary purposes.
Top 5 Health Benefits of Lysine
1. Stress Relief
Lysine can minimize stress and anxiety levels. In a study conducted in 2007, it was found that 50 people who were supplemented with 2.64 grams of lysine and arginine were found to have decreased stress-induced anxiety reduced levels of cortisol (stress hormone) after a week. [1]
2. Herpes and Cold Sores:
Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV 1) causes cold sores. Lysine can decrease the occurrence of herpes breakouts and their healing time by preventing the replication of the herpes virus by blocking an amino acid called arginine which is needed in the multiplication of the viruses. [2]
3. Calcium Retention:
It facilitates better retention of calcium in the body which plays an important role in building bones. Lysine can assist in calcium retention through enhanced absorption within the digestive system and improved retention in the kidneys. Lysine and other essential amino acids have a beneficial impact on bone health in aging individuals according to a study conducted in 2022. [3]
4. Blood Sugar and High Blood Pressure:
Studies indicate that Lysine may regulate blood sugar levels and reduce high blood pressure. Research conducted on 50 patients suffering from lysine deficiency and hypertension showed that lysine supplements were effective in reducing blood pressure. [4]
5. Collagen Formation and Wound Healing:
Lysine promotes the formation of body tissues and skin regeneration. It facilitates wound healing by helping form collagen which provides support and structure to skin and bones. Lysine also acts as a binding agent by increasing the count of new cells formed in a wound.
Natural Food Sources of Lysine
Lysine is found in abundance in foods that contain proteins. The body does not synthesize lysine, hence the need for consumption of a wide range of these foods to keep lysine levels healthy.
Category
Main Sources
Supplementation Guide
If you’re thinking about using lysine pills or powder, here are some of the things you should know about the timing and dosage of this substance. It is available both as oral supplement and topical cream.
Dosage Guidelines:
- Lysine is probably safe for most individuals when used up to a dosage of 3000 mg per day for a year or less. Side effects associated with lysine use include stomach pain and diarrhea. [5]
Always consult a doctor before starting any supplements. - Topical Application: If you suffer from skin ailments, lysine can also be administered topically in cream form.
Precautions:
- Pregnancy and lactation: Insufficient reliable information exists about the safety of using lysine during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. It is better to avoid using lysine during pregnancy.
- Lysinuric protein intolerance: Using lysine supplements may lead to symptoms of diarrhea and abdominal cramping in patients with this condition.
Interactions and Safety
- It is recommended that you avoid combining calcium and lysine supplements, particularly if you suffer from heart disease. The reason for this is that lysine enhances calcium uptake while simultaneously reducing its excretion. [6] In other words, it helps retain more calcium within your body.
- Arginine (also an amino acid) and lysine have competition regarding absorption. The consumption of large amounts of lysine will make it impossible for arginine to be absorbed in the body. [7]
The Bottom Line
Lysine is an amino acid which has benefits that include the prevention of cold sores, reducing feelings of anxiety and facilitating wound healing.
As a component of protein, it also offers multiple additional advantages. In case of lysine deficiency, your body would not be able to synthesize adequate amounts or types of hormones and immune cells.
There are abundant natural sources of lysine and also supplements can be taken with proper medical guidance if recommended.
References
[1] PubMed: Oral treatment with L-lysine and L-arginine reduces anxiety and basal cortisol levels in healthy humans
[2] British Pharmacological Society: L-lysine: Its antagonism with L-arginine in controlling viral infection. Narrative literature review
[3] PubMed Central: Role of Essential Amino Acids in Age-Induced Bone Loss
[4] BMC Nutrition: Effect of lysine supplementation on hypertensive men and women in selected peri-urban community in Ghana
[5] WebMD: Lysine – Uses, Side Effects, and More
[6] BJCP: L-lysine: Its antagonism with L-arginine in controlling viral infection. Narrative literature review
[7] BJCP: L-lysine: Its antagonism with L-arginine in controlling viral infection. Narrative literature review