Lysine

Lysine is one of the essential amino acids. It is a building block of protein that the body cannot synthesize from other materials and, therefore, must be obtained from our diet. Different proteins have different ratios of amino acids including essential and non-essential amino acids. Arginine is another essential amino acid. Eessential amino acids are those that your body cannot synthesize but are required for life and that must be obtained from our diet. Non-essential amino acids are those that are required for life and that our bodies can synthesize internally.

Lysine is important in protein synthesis, in the crosslinking of collagen polypeptides, the uptake of essential mineral nutrients, and in the production of carnitine, which is key in fatty acid metabolism.

Lysine, Herpes and Viral Infections

Several studies published over many years have provided preliminary evidence that supplementation with the amino acid L-lysine and/or dietary restriction of the amino acid L-arginine may be effective anti herpes simplex virus treatments. Arginine is required for viral replication, and L-lysine's potential antiviral effects are thought to result from blocking arginine activity. Taken as a whole, the clinical evidence is mixed. (1)(2)(3)

A review of 12 studies of lysine supplementation in the treatment or prevention of herpes outbreaks found that doses below 1 g/day were ineffective unless combined with a low-arginine diet. One small randomized controlled trial found that a lysine dosage greater than three grams per day reduced recurrence rates and improved patients' self-reported symptoms. (2)

Individual results with lysine and arginine in the treatment of herpes simplex virus outbreaks may vary. Given that lysine has very little potential for side effects at typical dosages,(4) and that an arginine-restricted diet can be nutritionally complete, a therapeutic trial of a combination of 1-3 grams or more of supplemental L-lysine per day with a low-arginine diet may be beneficial.

Given that arginine is an essential amino acid and has important roles in endocrine function, long term arginine restriction may not be the best practice.

Lysine Supplements

Here are some recommended Lysine Supplements.

Lysine from the Life Extension Foundation.

Related Health Protocols

Herpes and Shingles, Shayna Sandhaus, PhD

Bell's Palsy, Maureen Williams, ND; Shayna Sandhaus, PhD

Lysine References

Anti-Aging Nutrition News

Life Extension Health Protocols

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