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What Are the Causes of L-Lysine Unbalance?

L-lysine, or simply lysine, is an amino acid with essential importance to the proper function of the human body. L-lysine imbalance can result from factors or conditions that deplete, restrict or decrease the availability of current lysine intake.

  1. The Facts

    • Our bodies cannot manufacture lysine internally. As a result, our daily supply of this amino acid must come from dietary sources or supplementation.

    Lysine-Related Functions

    • Lysine intake is necessary for bodily functions, including growth, energy production, calcium absorption and the production of the tissue-forming substance called collagen, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC).

    Increased Activity

    • Lysine imbalance typically stems from insufficient lysine intake. The UMMC notes that people with high energy requirements--such as athletes--may experience lysine deficiency.

    Dietary Restrictions

    • Lysine occurs mainly in protein-rich foods, such as meat, fish, cheese, eggs and soybeans. Lysine deficiency may occur in vegans who do not include adequate amounts of beans in their diet, reports the UMMC.

    Burns

    • Burn patients, who typically have an increased need for collagen production, may also experience lysine deficiency.

    Arginine

    • High intake of the amino acid arginine can also trigger decreased availability of lysine, which the body utilizes through the same biochemical pathways, according to the UMMC.

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