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L- Lysine

About

What is it? L-lysine is the active component of Lysine. Lysine is an amino acid that we obtain from our diets. L-lysine is integral to our bodies because it contributes to our growth and the formation of collagen (a component of skin and cartilage) and has a role in calcium absorption. It also produces carnitine, which changes fatty acids to energy and helps lower cholesterol in our bodies.


PROPERTIES: Antiviral, anti-osteoporotic, antioxidant



CONSIDERED USES


Cardiovascular: May help lower blood pressure (need more studies)


Gastrointestinal: Canker sores/aphthous ulcers, herpes simplex I labialis/cold sores, herpes simplex I


Genitourinary: Elevated PSA


Musculoskeletal: Enhances growth (debatable) and may increase muscle strength. It may help prevent bone loss in osteoporosis, enhance wound healing


Skin: Reduces severity and also helps prevent and support herpes simplex II - genital sore formation, bed sores


Mental Health: Schizophrenia (rx list cited 34% improvement), stress, anxiety


Glucose: May help lower blood sugar


Cholesterol: Cholesterol-lowering


Other: Enhances calcium absorption, may improve athletic performance, weight loss


Side Effects: Stomach upset, diarrhea


Cautions/Contraindications: Possibly kidney disease, caution with calcium supplementation (may increase calcium level)


FORMS: Tablets, capsules, powders, topical gels, creams, lip applicators, extracts, chewables


RECOMMENDED BRANDS

CVS Health® L-Lysine 1,000 mg

GNC L-Lysine

Life Extension® L-Lysine 620 mg

NOW® Double Strength L-Lysine 1,000 mg

Simple Truth® Free Form L-Lysine 500 mg

Spring Valley® [Walmart] L-Lysine 1,000 mg

Swanson® L-Lysine

Carlson® L-Lysine Powder


DOSAGES: As directed

The following are reported doses and may NOT be supported by evidence (reported by various sources, i.e., WebMD, RxList, Epocrates, ConsumerLabs, German Commission E, NIH publications, and others). Read dosages and instructions carefully when available on the label.

  • Canker sore prevention: 500 mg by mouth daily

  • Canker sore treatment: 1000 mg by mouth 4 times daily

  • Diabetic foot ulcers/bed sores: Apply 15% cream to area 2 times daily

  • Herpes I (herpes labialis) prevention and treatment: 1000 mg by mouth 3 times daily

  • High blood pressure: 500 mg by mouth 2 times daily

  • Schizophrenia: 3 gm by mouth 2 times daily (need more studies)

*Disclaimer: The material above is for informational purposes only. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure a condition. The uses listed above are tentative; some have or are undergoing research trials, but many are not FDA-approved. You must investigate these supplements further before deciding to use them. Check interactions and contraindications on sites like Drugs.com or WebMD. Do not attempt to treat a serious condition like liver, kidney problems, high blood pressure, heart, cancer, diabetes, or thyroid issues without discussing it with a healthcare provider first. If you are pregnant, do not use supplements without discussing it with your healthcare provider.

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*Disclaimer: The material above is for informational purposes only. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure a condition. The uses listed above are tentative; some have or are undergoing research trials, but many are not FDA-approved. It is essential that you investigate these supplements further before deciding to use them. Check interactions and contraindications on sites like Drugs.com or WebMD. Do not attempt to treat a serious condition like liver, kidney problems, high blood pressure, heart, cancer, diabetes, or thyroid issues without discussing it with a healthcare provider first. If you are pregnant, do not use supplements without discussing it with your healthcare provider.

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