Benefits and Side Effects of L-Lysine

L-lysine is an essential amino acid that cannot be manufactured in the bodies of animals. Only plants and bacteria are equipped with the ability to synthesize this crucial amino acid from aspartic acid. Lysine is an important constituent of all proteins found in the body. It is found in a small amount in cereals, while pulses are a significant source of lysine. Some important plant sources of lysine are soybean, berro, common bean, lentil, buffalo gourd, buckwheat and spinach. Besides these, meat, especially red meat, pork and poultry, eggs, cheese and some fishes like cod and sardines are the rich sources of lysine.

Benefits of L-Lysine

As an indispensable component of proteins, lysine plays many significant roles in the human body. It is crucial for the proper absorption of calcium from the gastrointestinal tract. It also helps in conserving calcium. It facilitates the production of enzymes, hormones and antibodies and assists in the formation of muscle protein. Lysine aids in the synthesis of collagen, an important constituent of bones and connective tissues. Besides this, it stimulates the production of creatinine, which is responsible for converting fatty acids into energy. In the process, the level of cholesterol, especially the harmful LDL cholesterol, reduces in the body. An elevated level of LDL cholesterol is associated with the increased risk of coronary heart disease and atherosclerosis (narrowing of the arteries due to deposition of fats inside the arterial wall).

Lysine is often used in treating herpes viral infections, especially those caused by herpes simplex virus. It has been observed that lysine is effective in accelerating the process of recovery and reducing the frequency of both cold sores and genital herpes. It is also helpful in another viral disease known as shingles, which is characterized by skin rashes. As lysine facilitates the absorption of calcium, it may help in preventing osteoporosis. Besides these, lysine also prevents the excessive loss of calcium through urine. Certain forms of lysine are also believed to have anti-inflammatory properties, and hence, may be effective in alleviating pain. Some studies have revealed that lysine and arginine can activate the production of collagen, which is required for maintaining healthy bones, tendons and skin. Lysine along with vitamin C, alleviates the symptoms associated with the heart condition, known as angina pectoris. Lysine can also be helpful in migraines.

Deficiency of L-Lysine

A deficiency of lysine can lead to the formation of kidney stones and other health problems such as nausea, dizziness, loss of appetite, fatigue, anemia and disorders associated with the reproductive system. A low level of lysine can also lead to a low level of the thyroid hormone, asthma and prolonged viral infections. As it is a vital amino acid, its deficiency can inhibit the normal rate of growth and development. However, we can get the required amount of lysine in our daily diet. It binds with sugar and therefore, in case of large intake of sugary cereals, the body finds it difficult to absorb lysine. In such cases, one may take lysine supplements.

Side Effects of L-Lysine

No major side effects of l-lysine have been discovered till now. A high dose may lead to the formation of gallstones. An excessive intake of lysine over a long time is also believed to reduce the level of cholesterol and arginine, another essential amino acid.

So, lysine is an important amino acid that plays a vital role in many crucial life processes. But it should be taken in the required amount, as an excessive amount can lead to certain health problems like gallstones and a reduction in the level of arginine. Besides this, an experienced physician should be consulted before taking lysine supplements, especially by pregnant and nursing mothers and people with cardiovascular diseases, kidney and liver problems.