What Is the Vitamin Lysine Used For?

Lysine is an essential amino acid, not a vitamin, that the human body needs for proper health, yet the body is incapable of making it. Therefore, it must come from foods or supplementation. Much has been learned about this valuable amino acid and how beneficial it can be to our health. Since lysine is the building block of all protein, it is invaluable to our bodies.

Why is Lysine Essential?

Lysine is required for bone development and growth in children, and helps calcium absorption as well as balances nitrogen in the body. It is also necessary to produce antibodies, enzymes, hormones and collagen. It lowers cholesterol and helps the body to repair tissue damage.

Lysine Deficiency

Symptoms of lysine deficiency include blootshot eyes, anemia, nausea, dizziness, loss of energy, weight loss, reproductive problems, lack of concentration and appetite.

Lysine Toxicity

Too much lysine the in body will cause stomach cramps and diarrhea.

Foods That Contain Lysine

To get your lysine without taking a supplement, it is found naturally in potatoes, soy beans, lima beans, cod, sardines, nuts, Parmesan cheese, eggs, milk, meat and brewer's yeast.

Supplements are available in your local drug, grocery or department store, in varying dosages. Follow the directions on the bottle exactly as given.

Surprising Uses for Lysine

When you feel a cold sore or a herpes sore starting, take Lysine immediately. It may stop it in its tracks. Repeat the dosage at night and in the morning.

You can also take Lysine to help burns and cuts heal, since it helps tissues to repair themselves.