Welcome to L-Lysine.net

Lysine (mostly referred to as L-lysine) is an essential amino acid which is required to perform some important functions in the body. In most cases amino acids can be produced by the body, but in the case of lysine it needs to be supplemented either in the general diet or from other sources. Amino acids which cannot be produced by the body are called "essential amino acids" . An amino acid is used by the body to produce protein.

If the body is suffering with a lack of lysine it can lead to problems with the immune system. In particular patients with depression, thyroid disorders, Parkinson's disease and even asthma have often been found to have low levels of Lysine. For some people supplementation with this amino acid is an important part of maintaining their health.

Lysine benefits

- Along with other amino acids, lysine is very effective at helping the body to build protein molecules, or muscles.

- If taken with L-arginine, lysine can increase hormone secretions which help to build up the immune system.

- There is some evidence that lysine can improve concentration.

- Lysine is thought to improve fat mobilisation making it useful when trying to lose weight or build muscle.

- Lysine can help sports people recover from injury or in the recovery from surgery.

- Lysine is essential when it comes to the absorption of calcium in the body which in turn leads to stronger bones and teeth. It is an important supplement for those people who are suffering with osteoporosis and bone degeneration.

- Lysine can also be used in the treatment of skin conditions such as the herpes simplex virus which causes cold sores or shingles. It is often used for patients who present with these symptoms along with anti-viral medicines.

Lysine Side Effects

- It is thought that very high does of lysine can be associated with a rise in cholesterol levels.

- Doses of more than 10 grams per day can result in stomach pains.

- Lysine should not be taken with dairy products and should never be taken alongside antibiotics as this may inhibit the desired results.

- As lysine as a supplement is often derived from soy, those people with an allergy to this may prefer to use other forms. Allergies to soy can cause headaches and stomach problems.

- With long term use the build up of lysine in the body can eventually interfere with the transport of another amino acid called arginine.

- After long term use lysine may interfere with the metabolism of protein in the diet, but this is a rare complication.


The addition of lysine in the diet is considered to be very safe and for those who wish to supplement, it can be found at health food stores or online. For those who prefer to find natural sources of lysine the following foods contain the amino acid:

- Meat

- Legumes (beans)

- Nuts

- Dairy products


Vegetarians and vegans may need to supplement their diet with lysine as meat is one of the richest sources. However it is possible to find good amounts in beans such as soy and chickpeas.

Meat eaters may want to stick to low fat options such as lean fish and chicken, especially if they are also trying to lose weight.

Generally lysine is available to most people through the diet, but supplementation is not harmful and can actually be beneficial especially for those recovering from injury or for those with the herpes virus. Care should be take when using it in conjunction with arginine, but overall it is useful in the right doses.