Benefits of L-LysineL-Lysine Side EffectsFoods High in Lysine
Before we delve into the benefits of L-Lysine, and foods high in lysine, let's briefly discuss what it is and why it's needed for optimal health. Lysine is an essential amino acid, which means the body does not manufacture it and, as such, it must be obtained from food sources. Lysine is a necessary building block for proteins. It's essential for proper growth and development in children; it helps calcium absorption and it maintains proper normal nitrogen balance in adults. It is also needed for tissue repair, and the production of antibodies, hormones, and enzymes. Benefits of L-Lysine - How can it Benefit You?
Benefits of L Lysine – Foods High in Lysine Food sources of lysine include cheese, eggs, fish, lima beans, milk, potatoes, red meat, soy products, and yeast.
Deficiencies, Precautions, and Side Effects of Lysine Deficiencies in lysine can result to anemia, bloodshot eyes, hair loss, nausea, dizziness, enzyme disorders, tiredness, poor appetite, retarded growth, weight loss, reproductive disorders, and an inability to concentrate. There have been no known side effects of L- Lysine when taken at recommended dosages. On the other hand, possible side effects of taking too much L-Lysine may increase the risk of developing gallstones. Also, taking high doses of lysine for long periods of time may deplete levels of the amino acid arginine. Pregnant and nursing women, along with anyone who has an existing medical condition, including those on prescription medications should consult with their physician before beginning any type of dietary supplementation. Older individuals, particularly men, require more lysine than younger ones. It is not recommended that lysine supplements be taken without consulting a physician first if you have a severe liver or kidney condition. Individuals with cardiovascular disease and those with elevated cholesterol and/or triglyceride levels should consult a physician before taking lysine supplements. Lysine Dosages The suggested dosage for herpes is 3-6 g daily – plus lysine rich foods. For cold sores or fever blisters, 500-1,000 mg daily between meals is recommended as a good preventive.
Currently, there is no RDA (Recommended Dietary Allowance) for lysine. However, estimates are ages 13 and older: 12 mg per kilogram of body weight per day. Tips on Choosing L-Lysine Supplements Purchase your supplement from pharmaceutical GMP compliant facilities, which adhere to the most stringent requirements. This is crucial because it provides you with the piece of mind needed in knowing that your product does not contain contaminates and it does have the active ingredients stated on the label. This is because dietary supplements are unregulated by the FDA and contamination and quality has been found to be an industry-wide problem. In fact, it's important to purchase all your dietary supplements from pharmaceutical GMP compliant facilities.
Final Note: Oftentimes studies indicate that more than one nutrient working together on a health condition creates better results than a single nutrient. For example, taking supplemental L-lysine, together with vitamin C with bioflavonoids, is said to effectively fight and/or prevent herpes outbreaks, especially if you avoid consuming foods containing the amino acid arginine. Foods high in arginine are chocolate, peanuts, seeds, almonds, and other nuts.
To Your Health! The Editors
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