L lysine for a cold sore
L-lysine, also called Lysine or L'lysine, is a well-known remedy for cold sores . L-lysine is an essential amino acid that the body cannot produce on its own. Therefore, the amino acid must always be obtained from food or supplements. The question surrounding L-lysine primarily concerns its positive effect on herpes infections, of which cold sores are the most common form. European scientific research shows that taking a 1000-3000 milligram L-lysine supplement daily reduces the risk of recurrent cold sores. It also has a positive effect on the healing process of cold sores.
Where is L-lysine found?
As mentioned, the body cannot produce this amino acid itself. Therefore, it's important to obtain it from food or through a supplement. The most common sources of lysine are:
- Meat (beef, lamb, mutton, chicken)
- Fish (tuna, mackerel, sole, trout, salmon, cod)
- Dairy products (milk, yogurt)
- Eggs
- Soy
- Legumes
- Supplements
L-lysine supplement for cold sores
The amino acid has a supportive effect on cold sores. However, this involves a dosage of 1000-3000 milligrams per day. These amounts are unrealistic to consume through food, because food contains relatively insufficient amounts of the amino acid. By carefully using a lysine supplement , the health benefits can be applied to cold sores.
