L-lysine: The solution to the herpes virus?

Herpes that develops with painful pimples on or near the lips is usually caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1: herpes simplex virus 1). These painful, fluid-filled blisters have occurred after close contact with an infected person, such as a kiss.

There are two different types of herpes, HSV-1 and HSV-2. Although both can cause oral or genital herpes, HSV-1 usually causes oral herpes and HSV-2 causes genital herpes. HSV infection is very common worldwide. In the United States, more than 50% of the population has cold sores and almost 17% have genital herpes. In some populations up to 90% of the adult population is infected with one of two viruses.

Once infected, the virus remains dormant in the body until something triggers it: Ultraviolet radiation, stress, fatigue, a cold, the flu, and extreme weather conditions weaken the immune system and can trigger symptoms.

What is the ratio of lysine to arginine?

Lysine is an essential amino acid that means it is not produced by the body, so it must be obtained through diet or supplements. It is important for growth and plays an essential role in the production of carnitine, a molecule that is responsible for converting fatty acids into energy. In combination with high doses of vitamin C it has been suggested to reduce lipoprotein (a) which is one of the causes of atherosclerosis. It also helps with the absorption of calcium and the formation of collagen – Vitamin C converts lysine to hydroxylysine which is then incorporated into collagen. Many people consume enough lysine through their diet but some athletes or vegans may need more. If you do not have enough lysine in your body, you may experience some symptoms, such as fatigue, nausea, and loss of appetite.

Laboratory research has shown that the addition of the amino acid arginine to cell cultures caused an uncontrolled proliferation of the herpes virus. In contrast, the addition of lysine inhibited the growth and spread of the virus in cultured cells. Based on this fact, patients suffering from herpes could benefit from following a diet rich in lysine and poor in arginine.

In order to reproduce in the body, herpes needs a stable source of arginine. Also, this amino acid is converted to nitric oxide which is necessary for the dilation of blood vessels and the improvement of blood flow. Lysine is thought to interfere with the absorption of arginine in the gut, making the amino acid less available to the virus. Thus, even if it can not cure or prevent the infection, lysine may be able to help slow the herpes reproduction.

As HSV reproduction requires arginine-rich proteins while lysine inhibits their synthesis, L-lysine (the biologically active isomer of lysine) has been used to inhibit infection by alternative health professionals. Foods rich in lysine are beef, chicken, pork, cod, eggs and yogurt.

What do the studies show?

Some studies have shown that taking lysine on a regular basis can reduce the duration of cold sores symptoms. One study found that 3 grams a day for a period of six months reduced the number of cold sores and shortened the healing time [1]. Another study showed that lysine accelerated the healing process for 87% of participants, reducing the average time from 21 days to 6 days [2]. A comparable result was reported in a 12-month double-blind, crossover study with 1 gram of lysine per day [3].

Experts generally agree that lysine may not prevent cold sores but may reduce recurrences or the severity of symptoms. A review published in 2017 concluded that more, longer-term studies are needed for daily doses of lysine in excess of 1.2 grams to definitively test the role of lysine in the prevention of the herpes virus [5].

Note that not only the absolute amount of lysine but also the ratio of lysine to arginine plays a role. Foods that have a relatively high ratio of lysine to arginine are yogurt, cheese and goat’s milk. Nuts, sesame seeds and snails have a high ratio of arginine to lysine [6].

Dosage and possible side effects

Lysine is available not only as a dietary supplement but also as a cream. To treat cold sores, apply lysine cream to the affected area every two hours for 11 days. The recommended dosage for dietary supplements is 1 gram three times a day, both for disease management and prevention. If you do not notice an improvement in your condition, discuss doses and alternative treatments with your doctor. If symptoms worsen, stop treatment. Zinc and vitamin C supplements also strengthen the immune system.

Up to 3 grams of lysine a day do not cause side effects in the body. However, in large quantities side effects can occur, such as diarrhea, cramps, abdominal pain and nausea.

There is not enough information about the safety or side effects of lysine during pregnancy.

Before taking lysine or any other supplement, discuss the potential risks with your doctor. Lysine may interact with medications you may be taking. It can increase the absorption of calcium and this can affect the functioning of the organs.

At Vita4you.gr you will find a variety of lysine supplements!

References

1. Success of L-lysine therapy in frequently recurrent herpes simplex infection. Treatment and prophylaxis.
2. Safety and effectiveness of an L-lysine, zinc, and herbal-based product on the treatment of facial and circumoral herpes.
3. Lysine as a prophylactic agent in the treatment of recurrent herpes simplex labialis.
4. Lysine for Herpes Simplex Prophylaxis: A Review of the Evidence.
5. Lysine and Arginine Food Guide.