A naturally occurring amino acid, l-lysine is one of the only 20 amino acids that serves as a building block for proteins. L-lysine is a component of all of the proteins in the human body and is crucial for good health. With such an important role in the body, l-lysine is used as an effective treatment option and supplement.
An essential amino acid, l-lysine or lysine is necessary for human health. However, the body cannot manufacture the nutrient, so it is important to get enough of the nutrient via dietary intake or supplement.
Lysine serves as a building block for proteins in the body, making it important for growth and development. The nutrient also functions in the production of other nutrients including carnitine, which regulate the processing of fatty acids in the body.
While most individuals get an adequate amount of l-lysine in their diets, some individuals including athletes, burn patients and some vegans do not. An insufficient amount of lysine in the diet leads to fatigue, nausea, dizziness, decreased appetite, irritability, bloodshot eyes, delayed development, anemia, and reproductive issues.
As a building block of proteins in the body, lysine is a vital nutrient for supporting proper growth and development; however, the nutrient serves other purposes as well. Research suggests that the nutrient also helps the body absorb calcium. Likewise, it appears to play a part in the formation of collagen, which supports bone and tissue health, including skin, tendon, and cartilage development.
Being such a crucial nutrient, l-lysine can also help manage a variety of health conditions. The nutrient can be used to control cholesterol levels, prevent osteoporosis and other age-related bone density conditions, support growth and reduce anxiety and stress. The nutrient is also effective for preventing herpes, treating shingles, relieving pain due to inflammation and maintaining heart health.
As with any health supplement, care must be taken when using l-lysine as both too much and too little of the nutrient can cause health concerns. In any case, though, lysine is an effective health support that prevents and treats a wide range of conditions.
