About the Vitamin Called L-Lysine

Sometimes thought of as a vitamin, L-lysine is actually an amino acid, which is essential to forming proteins in your body. Humans are not able to produce L-lysine and must obtain the necessary amounts through food or dietary supplements.

Sources

• Foods high in L-lysine include margarine, yogurt, cheese, papaya, beets, milk, mango, apricots, apples, pears, cottage cheese, figs, avocados, swordfish and salmon.

Uses

• In alternative medicine, L-lysine supplements are used to heal cold sores and treat genital herpes, kidney stones, migraines and rheumatoid arthritis, says the Physicians Desktop Reference. L-lysine is also taken to prevent osteoporosis and improve athletic performance.

Time Frame

• L-lysine supplements are generally considered safe when taken for less than one year, reports RxList.

Risks

• Common side effects of L-lysine use include stomach pain and diarrhea. The amino acid also poses a risk for kidney damage, cautions the Physicians Desktop Reference.

Considerations

• If you are pregnant or nursing or have kidney disease, it may not be safe for you to take L-lysine supplements.