Healing Benefits of L-Lysine from Herpes to Wounds

L-Lysine is an essential amino acid that is not produced by the body. It can only be acquired by eating certain foods like vegetables, beans, fish, turkey, and chicken or in supplement form. Research shows that the amino acid aids in the preservation of calcium, the formation of collagen, builds muscle, and helps the immune system produce antibodies.

My Experience

After having my second child by cesarean section, I developed an infection in the wound. The incision opened up and left me with incredible pain and recurring hospitalization during the first months of my new baby's life. My OB-GYN prescribed a natural supplement called L-Lysine to aid and speed up my healing process.

I began taking the supplement as my physician prescribed, 1000 mg a day. Within a week I noticed a difference. The incision began to heal faster. The pain and discomfort subsided.

My doctor was impressed. The conventional treatment of antibiotics, along with cleaning and packing the wound, had not performed nearly as well on their own. He told me that I was the first patient he had suggested L-Lysine to. He noted that the speed of healing, compared to other cases that he had encountered, was remarkably accelerated.

I noticed other changes as I continued to take the supplement. My nails seemed stronger and less prone to breaking. The texture of my hair softened and I noticed that there was less hair in my brush after styling.

Over time, my skin also seemed to benefit. My pores seemed smaller and the oily T-zone that I had dealt with all of my life virtually disappeared. Overall my skin just felt softer.

Added Advantages

Researching L-Lysine for my own education, I found it does much more than aid in healing wounds.

1. Studies have shown it to help control and speed healing of genital herpes and cold sores.

2. When taken with vitamin C it can help treat the symptoms of angina.

3. It also may reduce bone loss associated with osteoporosis.

4. Due to the calcium preservation, it is beneficial to your teeth, cartilage, and bones.

5. It may help increase mental well being.

6. It may also help offset fatigue.

7. Weight management benefits have also been noted.

Too Little or Too Much L-Lysine?

According to several studies, if you do not get enough Lysine in your diet you may suffer from kidney stones, fatigue, digestive disorders, dizziness, loss of appetite, agitation, bloodshot eyes, slow growth, anemia, and reproductive disorders. A proper well balanced diet should provide adequate amounts of the amino acid. Diets high in cereal, baked goods (like cookies, pastries, and cakes), and simple sugars should seek L-Lysine supplementation.

Laboratory tests have shown that too much Lysine causes gallbladder stones in animals.

Precautions

Every source stated that L-Lysine should not be taken with L-arginine supplements. No other counteractions with natural or prescription drugs were noted.

Please note that I am not a doctor. You should consult your physician before taking any supplements or making any changes in your prescription medication.