Lysine is needed for proper growth and bone development in children and maintaining an appropriate nitrogen balance in adults. Lysine helps absorb and conserve calcium and plays a vital role in forming collagen, cartilage, and connective tissue components. Lysine plays a role in the production of antibodies and lowers triglyceride levels.
The measurement of lysine, along with 23 other amino acids, is included in the Amino Acids in Plasma and the Amino Acids in Urine tests.
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Lysine (Lys/K) is an essential amino acid known for its antiviral properties. It helps prevent cold sores and other viral infections and is necessary for hormone production, bone growth, and maintenance in children and adults.
Lysine is involved in the production of antibodies, which may be part of the reason it is so effective in fighting viruses. Lysine also helps prevent the body from absorbing the amino acid arginine, which the herpes virus needs to reproduce. Studies have shown that supplemental L-lysine combined with vitamin C and flavonoids can effectively fight and/or prevent herpes outbreaks. Lysine supplements have also been used to avoid shingles. Lysine promotes collagen and muscle protein formation and can help speed recovery from surgery and sports injuries.
Lysine has a net positive charge, making it one of the three essential (by charge) amino acids. Lysine is one of the essential amino acids, meaning it cannot be produced in the body and must be obtained from dietary sources. Good sources of lysine include cheese, eggs, fish, beans, milk, potatoes, red meat, soy products, and yeast.
Most people get enough lysine from the diet, but cases of lysine deficiency have been reported, particularly in those with low-protein diets or eating disorders. Lysine deficiency can include vision disturbances, hair loss, inability to concentrate, irritability, lack of energy, poor appetite, infertility, delayed growth, and weight loss.
Doses of more than 10 gr per day may cause gastrointestinal disturbances (cramps, diarrhea). In massive doses (10 to 30 g per day), lysine increases the toxicity of aminoglycoside antibiotics, such as gentamicin, neomycin, and streptomycin.
