Welcome to L-Lysine.net

Although they are often spoken of together, lysine and arginine have many uses and may be used separately or in conjunction with one another. The recommended dosage for one amino acid supplement may be different for another. Some of the reasons for variation are:

Body Weight

Some supplements indicate how dosage is affected by age, but not always by size. Of course, young children usually have smaller doses of any supplement or medication than adults, but the size of the individual often plays a role in what is the best amount of lysine or arginine to take.

Age of Patient

Both lysine and arginine are important within the body, but each can be more in demand at one time than another. The two combined are a stimulus for growth, which is important for young people who are still in the formative stage. Later in life, these amino acids become helpful to keep from losing muscle. The proper dosage will vary based on need.

Physical Condition and Health

Lysine is well noted for helping repair the body, and arginine is better noted for growth, but they both work together when the body needs them. If disease makes the body weak, a larger dose of both amino acids is best. Following an accident or injury, the body needs more amino acids to help rebuild and shore up the damaged areas.

The Individual

Whether disease has something to do with it or not, people vary in their needs. One variable that comes into play in the dosage of lysine and arginine is the eating habits of the individual. Lysine must be obtained because the body cannot produce it. On the other hand, arginine is formed in the body.

A person who has a deficiency of lysine might not be lacking in arginine because of the body's production, so taking both supplements might not be necessary or wise. Arginine can become a problem if it is consumed at a higher rate than necessary.

The Purpose for Taking the Supplement

Arginine supplements may be taken for many reasons. It is necessary to put things in place for the body's production of nitric oxide. This helps to relax and dilate blood vessels. Arginine is also a significant player in treating burn and trauma patients.

Lysine has similar differing reasons to be taken in supplemental form. Most notable is the treatment of the herpes simplex virus and related cold sores. The severity of these conditions has a significant impact on how much lysine is needed to supplement what is received in the diet.

Ask the Doctor

Lysine is difficult to take in excess unless a person is attempting to do so, but arginine can be overdone. While neither is considered dangerous or life threatening, it is always in your best interest to ask your doctor before making a change to what supplements you are taking. If you are using prescription drugs, your doctor will know if supplements are safe to be taken along with them.