Lysine is an exogenous amino acid that plays an important role in the proper functioning of the entire body. Bone decalcification, chronic fatigue, constant feeling of irritability and difficulty concentrating, dizziness, hair loss, anemia, lack of appetite, bloodshot eyes, herpes - these are the most common symptoms that may indicate lysine deficiency.
Lysine(Lys, one-letter abbreviation K) is one of the essential amino acids included in proteins, including in muscles, tendons and bones, they are involved in the production of hormones, enzymes and antibodies, contribute to the formation of collagen, i.e. protein, which is part of the connective tissue, and support the absorption of calcium. What is his other role?
The role of lysine in the body
Lysine participates in the processes of tissue reconstruction (including after various overloads and injuries), therefore its proper level in the body should be especially taken care of by people working physically or intensively practicing sports. At the same time, it increases the growth of muscle mass. In addition, it is used as an adjunct in the case of herpes, because lysine inhibits the development of another amino acid - arginine, which may be responsible for the spread of the herpes virus. Lysine is also involved in the metabolism of fats and normalizes the work of muscles. It also plays an important role in the synthesis of carnitine, which in turn strengthens the cardiovascular system. In this way, it helps to protect the walls of blood vessels and prevents the development of plaque related to atherosclerosis.
Lysine with vitamin C
Recent studies show that lysine is also effective in influencing the immune system. It increases the body's immunity, therefore prophylactically, especially in the autumn and winter period, i.e. when it is more susceptible to virus attacks, use lysine together with doses of vitamin C. Recommended proportions of supplements are 500 mg of lysine and 1000-2000 mg of vitamin C daily. Lysine with vitamin C stimulate the body to produce immune antibodies and make it possible to shorten the duration of the infection or prevent it from developing. You just have to remember that in the case of lysine, you should not exceed the recommended doses, because excess amino acid in the body may result in stomach upset and diarrhea.
Lysine occurrence
The human body cannot produce lysine, it must be supplied withfood, so in order not to lead to lysine deficiency, a properly balanced diet plays such an important role. Where is lysine found? Its rich sources are, among others eggs, fish (e.g. halibut, salmon, tuna, sardines, herring, mackerel, cod), cheese and cheese, gelatin, yeast, red meat, dairy products, chicken and turkey meat, liver, soy products. We can also find it in almonds, whole grain bread, cocoa, buckwheat, green peas, red beans, parsley, and sesame seeds. As you can see, lysine is found in a wide range of products and it is easy to supplement any deficiency. Certainly, vegans are more prone to its deficiencies, as they exclude not only meat, fish, but also dairy products and eggs from their menu. It is them who, when composing their daily menu, should pay attention to products containing lysine.
Lysine deficiency
The symptoms of lysine deficiency are not always clear cut. Many people complain initially of fatigue, irritability, lack of concentration, and nervousness, which often occur when we live too intensely or have a more stressful time in life. However, when these general symptoms develop further, i.e. dizziness, hair loss, anemia, lack of appetite, bloodshot eyes, herpes, bone decalcification, muscle atrophy, and in children and adolescents visibly slow growth - it can be suspected that we are dealing with a deficiency of lysine. Fortunately, supplementing it is not difficult - all you need to do is change your diet or use appropriate supplements.
Lysine preparations
Lysine supplements are usually in the form of tablets or capsules, take one a day (usually 500 mg) and do not exceed the recommended dose. It is worth paying attention to the fact that the lysine in the preparation was in the so-called in free form, which means it is absorbed directly into the bloodstream, so the body won't have to digest it. Recognition of this type of preparation is simple, the letter L should appear before the name of the supplement, i.e. L-lysine.
Contraindications to the use of lysine
There are no clear contraindications to the use of lysine, especially in the recommended doses. The preparations are not only recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women and people who have planned surgeries in the near future.