Lysine is an essential amino acid that plays a key role in calcium absorption and provides antiviral properties to help the body fight infections. Because the human body cannot produce it naturally, this nutrient must be obtained entirely through your daily diet.
Rich sources of lysine mainly include milk, soy products, and various types of meat. These foods are frequently recommended for individuals managing herpes, as lysine helps slow the replication of the herpes simplex virus and reduces the severity of outbreaks.
However, dietary intake alone may not be sufficient to fully treat viral infections or prevent conditions like osteoporosis. Consequently, healthcare providers may recommend lysine supplements tailored to your specific health needs and treatment goals.
What is lysine used for
Lysine is used to:
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Fight viral infections, such as herpes, due to its natural antiviral properties;
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Aid in the treatment of osteoporosis by helping to increase calcium absorption;
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Support bone and muscle development in children by participating in growth hormone activity.
Lysine is also utilized in formulations of the medication ketoprofen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Ketoprofen is indicated for conditions such as osteoarthritis, arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, low back pain, tendonitis, muscle strains, and contusions. It also provides pain relief for dental surgeries, menstrual cramps, orthopedic procedures, and other post-operative recovery needs.
Foods rich in lysine
The following table lists the lysine content found in 100 grams (g) of common foods:
Since your body cannot synthesize lysine on its own, it is highly recommended to include these sources in your regular diet.
Recommended daily amount
The recommended daily intake of lysine is approximately 30 milligrams (mg) per kilogram (kg) of body weight. For example, a 154-pound (70 kg) adult would need to consume about 2100 mg of lysine per day.
You can easily meet this requirement by eating protein-rich foods. However, if your diet is restricted, your intake may not be sufficient, and supplementation might be advised by a medical professional.
When using lysine supplements to manage herpes, a dosage of 500 mg per day is often suggested to suppress the virus. In cases of recurrent outbreaks, the dosage may range from 1000 to 6000 mg per day.