Lysine.
Lysine (L-Lysine) is an essential amino acid that is well known for its antivira
properties. It helps prevent outbreaks of herpes and cold sores, and is needed
for hormone production and the growth and maintenance of bones in both children
and adults.
Lysine is involved in the production off antibodies for a strong, healthy immune
system, which may be part of the reason it is so effective at fighting herpes
viruses. Lysine also helps prevent the body’s absorption of the amino acid
arginine, which the herpes virus must have in order to replicate. Studies have
shown that taking supplemental L-lysine in combination with vitamin C and
flavonoids can effectively fight and/or prevent herpes outbreaks. Results of a
six-month trial involving more than 50 people indicate that lysine is far more
effective than a placebo in preventing cold sores.
Lysine supplements are also
used to prevent eruptions of shingles, a blistering condition that is
caused by the herpes varicella-zoster. Lysine also helps herpes and cold sores
heal more quickly. This amino acid promotes the formation of both collagen and
muscle protein, and may help speed recovery from surgery and sports injuries as
well.
Lysine is one of the essential amino acids, which means it cannot be
manufactured in the body and must be obtained from dietary sources. Good sources
of lysine include cheese, eggs, fish, lima beans, milk, potatoes, red meat, soy
products, and yeast.
Most people get enough lysine from their diet, but there have been recorded
cases of lysine deficiency, particularly in those that have a low-protein diet
or eating disorder. A lysine deficiency may include symptoms of bloodshot eyes,
hair loss, an inability to concentrate, irritability, lack of energy, poor
appetite, reproductive disorders, retarded growth, and weight loss.
People suffering from conditions caused by any form of herpes virus may benefit
greatly from lysine supplementation, but should first consult their healthcare
professional—most nutritionally oriented physicians will combine lysine therapy
with conventional antiviral medications such as acyclovir or valacyclovir.
Lysine supplements are available in stand-alone supplements or in combination
supplements, particularly those marketed for treatment of herpes outbreaks. It
comes in tablet, capsule, powder, and liquid forms. The usual dose is 500 to
1000 milligrams each day in capsules, although those with herpes generally take
as much as 6 grams each day to control their symptoms.
Doses of more than 10 grams each day may cause stomach cramps or diarrhea. In
very large doses (10 to 30 grams a day), lysine increases the toxicity of
aminoglycoside antibiotics, such as gentamicin, neomycin, and streptomycin.
Amino acids promote the production of various neurotransmitters and enzymes critically needed in brain metabolism. Amino acids allow smooth, balanced cognition and fluid transition from thought to disciplined action. Aid in the reduction of stress, frustration and cognitive overload.
Amino acids are the building blocks of protein in the body, they are essential
for the synthesis of structural protein, enzymes and some hormones and
neurotransmitters. Amino acids also affect exercise metabolisms.
There are 20 different amino acids that are
needed by the body to create the various proteins needed for body
growth and repair. Of these 20, 11 are created by the body and the
remaining nine, which are called “essential amino acids,” cannot be produced by the
body. The nine essential amino acids therefore must come from diet. Histidine,
isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine,
tryptophan, and valine are essential amino acids. The nonessential
amino acids are arginine, alanine, asparagine, aspartic acid,
carntitine, cysteine, glutamine, glutamic acid, glycine, proline,
serine, and tyrosine. All 20 amino acids are necessary for health.
Below are some of the major functions amino
acids are involved in;
_ They empower vitamins and minerals to do their specific jobs correctly.
_ Some amino acids can pass through the blood-brain barrier which exists to
maintain the health of the brain, the brain’s chemistry and its processes.
_ Act as neurotransmitters or precursors; some are needed to send and receive
messages.
_ Aid in communication with nerve cells in other parts of the body.
Foods high in protein, such as meat and
poultry, fish, eggs, and dairy products, are the richest dietary
sources of the essential amino acids.
We believe in the body's ability to heal itself when given the proper
nutrition. The highly specific formulas were developed around that logic to
offer solutions for many of life's health challenges.
Since 1987, Växa has formulated the most powerful homeopathic medicinals
available. We combine the proven power of homeopathy, along with vitamins,
minerals, amino acids and herbal medicine to give you the best natural
alternatives to address a variety of health concerns. This combination makes
Växa’s products much more powerful than any simple nutritional supplement.
