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L-lysine, a common form of lysine, is an essential amino acid
required but not produced by humans. Consequently, it is important
that humans include ample amounts in their diet. Proteins, including
those found in meat, poultry, and milk contain high amounts of
L-lysine. Conversely, proteins that come from grains and grain
products are usually low in L-lysine. Small amounts of L-lysine are
also found in vegetables and fermented foods such as yogurt and
miso.
Researchers now believe that lysine is instrumental in
helping the body to absorb and conserve calcium, but lysine serves
many other important functions in the body. Lysine appears to
interfere with the replication of herpes and is prescribed by
doctors to individuals who suffer from cold sores or have contracted
genital herpes. Although not completely conclusive, trials
investigating the benefits of lysine on cold sores support the use
of lysine for this purpose.
Since lysine supplementation
increases the absorption of calcium and may reduce its excretion,
some researchers are confident that lysine may some day play a role
in the prevention and treatment of
osteoporosis.
Dosage and
Administration
A common dosage that has been used
for possible prevention of herpers virus recurrence is 500 mg to 3
grams daily. An average dosage for other conditions is 1 gram per
day.
Possible Side Effects
In animal
studies high dosage of lysine have been associated with an increased
risk of gallstones and elevated cholesterol. However, supplemental
amounts have shown no significant side
effects.
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