Description
"Lysine" is an essential amino acid required for protein synthesis, tissue repair, and metabolic function. Since it must be obtained from food, dietary sources include meat, fish, dairy, and legumes. Playing a structural role, its presence supports collagen production, benefiting skin, joints, and bone density. Its antiviral properties contribute to immune defense against Herpes simplex infections and cellular integrity. Critical for growth and repair, lysine remains fundamental to muscle function, wound healing, and overall nutrition.
Functions in the Body
Category
Deficiency Symptoms
Lysine deficiency can result in hair loss, anemia, fatigue, weight loss, impaired fatty acid metabolism, reproductive problems, defective connective tissue, and stunted growth.
Synergists & Antagonists
Lysine
Warnings
Caution is advised when using lysine during pregnancy, while breastfeeding, or for those with lysinuric protein intolerance. Lysine can interact with calcium supplements, potentially increasing calcium absorption and affecting calcium balance.
Food Sources
Lysine can be found in foods such as nutritional yeast, beef, pork, poultry, cheese, cod, sardines, eggs, tofu, spirulina, and fenugreek seeds.
Time Frame
Lysine can be taken anytime, either with or without meals.
Depleted By
Lysine levels may be depleted by a lysine-deficient diet and high levels of arginine, which can reduce lysine’s effectiveness in the body.