L-Lysine
LโLysine
Snapshot
LโLysine is an essential amino acid crucial for protein synthesis, collagen formation, calcium absorption, and immune support.
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What is LโLysine?
LโLysine is a proteinogenic amino acid that the body cannot synthesize and must obtain through diet. It serves as a building block for proteins and is involved in numerous metabolic processes.
Where It Comes From
Dietary sources of Lโlysine include meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products, legumes, and quinoa. Supplements provide freeโform Lโlysine in powder or capsule form for targeted support.
Key Nutrients & Compounds
Supplemental Lโlysine delivers the pure Lโisomer of lysine. It often works synergistically with vitamin C to support collagen synthesis and with zinc to bolster immune function.
Health Benefits
LโLysine supports healthy collagen production, aiding skin, joint, and connective tissue integrity. It enhances calcium absorption and retention, contributing to bone health. Lysine also plays a role in immune defense, helping to reduce the frequency and severity of herpes simplex virus outbreaks.
Recommended Dosage
Typical supplemental doses range from 1,000 to 3,000โฏmg per day, often divided into two or three servings. For herpes simplex support, doses up to 3โฏg per day are commonly used.
How to Use It
Take Lโlysine capsules or powder with water, preferably between meals to optimize absorption. Splitting the total daily dose into smaller servings can improve tolerance.
Who Should Use It?
Ideal for individuals with low dietary lysine intakeโsuch as vegetarians or vegansโthose seeking support for collagen health, or anyone prone to cold sore outbreaks.
Possible Interactions or Cautions
LโLysine is generally well tolerated. Very high doses may cause gastrointestinal discomfort. Those with kidney disease should use it under medical supervision, as excess amino acids can stress renal function.
Final Thoughts
LโLysine is a foundational amino acid with diverse roles in protein synthesis, tissue health, and immune support. When supplemented appropriately, it can enhance collagen integrity, calcium utilization, and viral defense.
Scientific Studies
McCarty, M. F. (2009). Lโlysine as an immuneโsupportive nutraceutical: mechanisms and applications. Medical Hypotheses, 72(5), 539โ544.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mehy.2008.12.027
Griffith, R. S., et al. (1987). Reduction of recurrence rate of herpes simplex virus infection by oral lysine therapy. Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy, 20(6), 893โ901.
https://doi.org/10.1093/jac/20.6.893
Satuskey, B., et al. (2018). Role of Lโlysine in bone health: a systematic review. Nutrients, 10(8), 1053.
https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10081053