L-lysine (L Lysine) is an amino acids with a pharmacological use much more specific than that of most other amino acids. Supplementation of l-lysine (L Lysine) is one of the best options available for the treatment of herpes simplex virus infections, especially oral forms. L-lysine (L Lysine) is also much cheaper than antiviral drugs such as Acyclovir. L-lysine supplementation works by tilting the balance between lysine and arginine heavily in favor of lysine. This ameliorates herpes outbreaks because the herpes virus depends on the presence of arginine for its replication.

Lysine (L Lysine) has also been shown to be useful in the prevention of atherosclerosis, a hardening of the walls of arteries caused by deposits of lipoproteins (fats). Lysine may be capable of loosening and preventing such deposits, therefore keeping artery walls flexible. Thus, there is less susceptibility for hypertension (high blood pressure). Hypertension is a major factor in heart attack and stroke.

Lysine is one of nine essential amino acids that the body needs for growth and tissue repair. In order for the body to secure lysine levels needed, taking lysine supplements or increasing your diet with those foods with higher levels of lysine is encouraged.

Like all amino acids, lysine functions as a building platform for proteins. Lysine is key in the production of disease fighting antibodies, numerous enzymes, and hormones. Lysine insures the adequate absorption of calcium; helps form collagen that makes up bone cartilage and connective tissues. In several studies, Lysine has shown to be effective against herpes by improving the balance of nutrients necessary to reduce viral growth of the herpes virus. A deficiency of Lysine has been found to cause tiredness, lack of concentration, irritability, hair loss, anemia and reproductive problems. It has also been reported that too little lysine in a diet can result in kidney stones.

With Lysine being beneficial in building muscle protein, lysine is useful for patients recovering from injuries and recovery following surgical procedures. It is believed that Lysine may be beneficial in maintaining healthy blood vessels, preventing migraine headaches and slow the process of osteoporosis. As you can see, Lysine is a much-needed additive to our everyday lives.

Lysine and Canker Sores
Many nutritionally oriented physicians and dentists recommend taking lysine during an outbreak of canker sores to speed up the healing process of canker sores. The exact cause of the tiny yet painful mouth ulcerations we call canker sores is unknown, but most studies indicate a virus to be responsible. Hence lysine supplements may be an effective treatment as lysine has demonstrated anti viral properties. There has yet to be any clinical trials using lysine as a remedy for canker sores.

Lysine and Herpes
The most promising application of lysine is its use in preventing painful herpes sores caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV).

Lysine and Cols Sores
Lysine is believed to prevent and relieve cold sores (herpes). In studies conducted over the last several years with lysine, researchers are finding lysine to aid in the control and prevention of herpes outbreaks. There are two types of herpes virus: herpes type 1, that is the most common cause of cold sores or oral herpes infections, also commonly called fever blisters found around the mouth. Herpes type 2 represents the second type and is the most common cause of genital herpes infections. Both herpes simplex 1 and herpes simplex 2 can cause lesions either orally or genitally. Herpes type 2 is rarely the cause of oral herpes, although it cannot be overlooked as a possibility. Herpes simplex 1 is quickly becoming a leading culprit in genital herpes infections due to the misconception that "oral sex is safe sex".

In studying the relationship of lysine and herpes, researchers have found that in order to replicate, the herpes virus needs arginine, another common amino acid. Arginine is found in such foods as peanuts, chocolate, almonds, seeds, grains, gelatin and raisins. Lysine competes with arginine for absorption and entry of tissue cells. When lysine is present, it prevents the growth of HSV by depleting the strength of arginine.

Lysine supplements (as opposed to foods high in content) can also play a key role in reducing the severity of herpes related lesions. In a 6 months study of 50 people taking lysine or a placebo, it was indicative that lysine was far more effective than a placebo in preventing herpetic lesions from occurring. Those participants who were given a placebo reported twice as many infections as did those who were given lysine. It is believed that Lysine and taking Lysine supplements may even prevent HSV outbreaks in chronic sufferers.

Lysine and Shingles
Shingles is a herpes virus that is caused by a reactivation of varicell-zoster virus, an infection that starts out as chicken pox. Herpes zoster is closely related to herpes simplex and Lysine takes a similar role in treating the affects of shingles. Though most physicians recommend Lysine to shingles sufferers, it is typically combined with a prescription of antiviral medication such as acyclovir or valcyclovir.

Most Common Dosage Recommendation of Lysine
Note: It is always recommended that you consult your physician before taking any medication, including lysine, to avoid negative drug interactions or allergic reactions. What are listed here are the most common dosages for lysine by recommended by nutritionally informed physicians.

Lysine to treat Canker Sores
1000 mg Lysine three times a day with meals while lesions are present. Reduce lysine dose to 500 mg three times per day for one week following the healing of the canker sore lesion.

Lysine to treat Herpes
1000 mg Lysine three times per day with meals during flare-ups. If you suffer from recurrent or frequent herpes outbreaks, continue with a maintenance dose of 1000 mg of lysine per day.

Lysine to Treat Shingles
1000 mg Lysine three times per day during a shingles flare-up. Reduce lysine intake to 500 mg three times per day for one week after healing.

General Interactions with Lysine
It is not recommended that you take lysine with milk or dairy products. Very large doses of lysine can increase the toxicity of aminoglycoside antibiotics (i.e. gentamicin, neomycin and streptomycin).

Side Affects
Most common side affects of Lysine have been abdominal cramps and diarrhea. These have been reported only by those taking extremely high doses of lysine (more than 10 g per day).

Brand
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