Lysine is an essential amino acid therefore it must be obtained
from the diet as the body cannot produce its own. It is an
essential building block for all protein in the body and can be
found in animal meats, fish, dairy products, legumes and
brewer’s yeast. It performs many useful functions in the body
and has proved to be especially useful in treating herpes and
cold sores. Lysine also increases the absorption of calcium so
it may help to prevent and treat osteoporosis.
To the bodybuilder, lysine offers many benefits:
1. It helps build muscle protein.
2. It helps maintain nitrogen levels.
3. It supports the production of hormones.
4. It speeds up recovery from injury or overtraining.
Although lysine can be readily obtained from many foodstuffs,
supplementation can enhance the effects noted above. No problems
have been reported with normal usage but high doses exceeding 15
grams can cause stomach problems and cramp.
About the author:
Rick Mitchell is the creator of the bodybuildingadvisor.com
website that provides guidance and information to athletes at
all levels of bodybuilding experience. Go to Bodybuilding
Advice to learn more about the issues covered in this
article.