L-Lysine Information

L-Lysine Benefits and Side Effects

Lysine is one of eight essential amino acids - building blocks of protein - that the body cannot manufacture on its own. L-lysine is a specific configuration of the lysine molecule often used in dietary supplements.

As a building block of protein, l-lysine benefits the body by contributing to growth. L-lysine benefits also include production of carnitine, a substance that converts fatty acids into energy and lowers levels of LDL (“bad cholesterol”) in the bloodstream.

In addition, l-lysine benefits the skeletal system by contributing to the production of collagen, the protein used to make bone, tendons, cartilage and connective tissue. Calcium absorption and use is also facilitated by l-lysine, and l-lysine benefits the skin by helping to maintain its health and elasticity.

Without enough lysine in the diet, a range of health conditions may result. Though most people can easily obtain sufficient amounts of l-lysine through diet, those who eat large amounts of sugary cereals and baked good may minimize l-lysine benefits. This is because lysine is involved in the browning of sugar, which occurs when the two substances bind together. As a result, it is difficult for the body to absorb the lysine in sugary foods. So, in cases where a person’s diet is high in foods that contain a lot of simple sugars, l-lysine supplements may be of use.

There may be other l-lysine benefits from supplements for people with specific health concerns. For example...

when taken with vitamin C, l-lysine appears to help symptoms of the heart condition angina pectoris. It has also been used to treat sores caused by the herpes simplex and herpes zoster viruses. Additionally, it is believed that l-lysine benefits people with osteoporosis by helping to prevent bone loss. As mentioned before, calcium absorption appears to be enhanced by l-lysine.

Also, since low levels of l-lysine have been associated with depression, chronic viral infections, asthma, and low levels of thyroid hormones, there are possible l-lysine benefits for people with those conditions as well.

Further, l-lysine appears to work with equal amounts of the amino acid arginine to build muscle.The dosage recommended for maximum l-lysine benefits is usually 500 mg twice a day. People who want to maximize l-lysine benefits can safely take up to twice that amount without adverse effects.