If there is an essential amino acid to maintain the health of the human body, it is surely lysine. This serves to strengthen the immune system and stimulate growth in children. In addition, it helps to properly absorb calcium and intervenes in the healing of certain wounds, accelerating its process.
Unlike many components that our system produces naturally, lysine must be ingested in meals, tablets or food supplements, since the body does not synthesize it. As it is an essential amino acid to keep us in good condition, it is necessary for people to consume proteins that have lysine to avoid diseases or serious clinical conditions.
Lysine deficiency has detrimental consequences. The most common problems caused by a lack of this amino acid are: anemia, fatigue, alarming weight loss, and hormonal disorders, just to name a few.
Although many give little importance to the subject, there are elements that we have to take into account when it comes to feeding and nourishing ourselves, since without them we are more likely to present complications that can become truly dangerous.
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Benefits of lysine in our body
Almost all amino acids are essential in the processes carried out by the human body, since they contribute significantly to the optimal functioning of the body. Therefore, lysine must not be lacking in the system if it is to work properly.
Lysine is used to fight several viruses, especially the herpes virus, characterized by the appearance of sores on the lips and genitals. It is also used to strengthen the immune system and to accelerate the improvement of scars and fractures. In addition, lysine is closely related to the production of collagen and the absorption of calcium, which is essential for the strengthening of teeth and bones in general.
Some specialists suggest that taking lysine can prevent the appearance of cancer cells and relieve gastric pain caused by poor digestion. Likewise, they ensure that it brings vitality and energy to the body.
In aesthetic terms, lysine serves to delay skin aging, since it intervenes during cell repair. It even helps to have a smoother skin and is very useful in cases of acne or sunburn.
What is lysine for in children?
In children, lysine serves as a growth stimulant, mainly because it increases their appetite and participates in hormonal production. That is why lysine should not be absent from the diet of the youngest members of the household. However, the amino acid can also be ingested through supplements or powders. Of course, prescribed by a pediatrician or nutritionist.
Lysine is a great ally for children who are starting their school stage, since it helps them improve their performance and prevents fatigue or weakness. In fact, young athletes are recommended to increase their consumption of lysine, to keep them active and healthy.
Foods rich in lysine
Lysine can be found in foods that we consume almost every day. These are: eggs, meats, cheeses, cereals, spinach, beans, nuts, soy, milk, fish, peanuts, chicken, peas, carob beans, and asparagus. Including any of these in the daily diet ensures a balanced and nutritious diet.
Vegetarians can also enjoy a diet rich in lysine, since there is a huge variety of legumes, fruits and vegetables famous for containing the amino acid. For instance:
- Sunflower seeds
- Albaricoques
- Chickpeas
- Rice
- Quinoa
- Carrot
- Pineapple
- Tomato
- Papas
- Corn
- Almonds
- You have to
Basically all of these foods can be found in a supermarket, so there is no excuse to avoid eating protein with lysine. For lactose intolerant, skim or skim milk is also a source of lysine, although perhaps to a lesser degree than other dairy products.
What is L-lysine?
As we have already mentioned in previous sections, lysine is not only found in food: it is also possible to ingest it through supplements, powders or pills. The most common presentation of the amino acid is known as L-lysine and it usually comes in the form of tablets.
Sometimes it is advisable to stop eating some seeds or sweets before taking L-lysine. However, this is subject to medical advice. Do not forget that before buying or drinking any supplement or capsule you must have a prescription from a trusted doctor who has already reviewed your case and is sure that you need this supplement.
L-lysine 500 mg what is it for?
L-lysine 500 mg serves as a dietary supplement for adults. Therefore, it is not recommended in any way to administer these capsules to children or young people, since there are varieties of supplements manufactured and adapted especially for them.
This presentation is usually prescribed for patients who experience minor bone ailments or fatigue and weakness caused by poor diet or stress. Also in cases in which early herpes virus is detected. However, it will be a specialist who will determine if prescribing this supplement is right for you.
Remember that a food supplement is not a substitute for a regimen or a diet, so you should not stop eating if you are taking L-lysine 500 mg. Consult with a nutritionist if you have questions about the diet to follow while ingesting the amino acid. Also do not forget that you should not exceed the daily dose prescribed by a health specialist.
What is the recommended dose of lysine?
The recommended dose of lysine per day varies according to the opinion of the doctor who has prescribed it. In the case of food, there is no need to worry. Different is when it comes to the supplement, whose intake should not be exceeded as it can cause adverse or unwanted effects.
According to experts, so far the daily dose of lysine should not exceed 1000 mg. Despite this, patients have had to ingest more than 3000 mg per day due to severe herpes infections. The rate and quantity of capsules to be taken will be decided by the doctor.
Typically, a fairly low dose is started, unless the individual’s condition requires otherwise. In children, the doses are smaller, usually prescribed in syrups or powdered supplements that can be drunk with meals.
Lysine contraindications
If you are pregnant, ask a medical center if you can take lysine in supplements. If you are undergoing other treatment, you should also visit a doctor beforehand to avoid complications later.
It is very rare for lysine intake to cause dangerous side effects. Reactions depend on the amount of lysine a patient has taken. High doses frequently produce some of the following effects:
- Nausea and stomach pain.
- Indigestion.
- Hair loss.
- Abdominal burning
If any of these symptoms persist, go to the nearest office, as the dose of lysine will probably need to be stopped. Don’t worry if you experience diarrhea for the first few days after drinking lysine, the problem should go away in less than a week.
Keep in mind that you should never self-medicate, even if it is a dietary supplement. Ask and discuss your doubts with a specialist: he will answer you and suggest the presentation of lysine that best suits you or your family.
Dr. Samantha Robson ( CRN: 0510146-5) is a nutritionist and website content reviewer related to her area of expertise. With a postgraduate degree in Nutrition from The University of Arizona, she is a specialist in Sports Nutrition from Oxford University and is also a member of the International Society of Sports Nutrition.