What’s the difference between lysine and l lysine?

Are you tired of feeling like a human guinea pig every time you walk into your local health store? We’ve all been there. The walls lined with supplements that might as well be in another language. But fear not, we’re here to decode one of the most confusing pairs: lysine and l-lysine.

So, what exactly is lysine? And why does it have an ‘l’ before it sometimes? And how do I know if I need it?

What is Lysine?

Lysine (don’t worry about the ‘l’ yet) is an amino acid that your body needs but can’t produce on its own. It plays a crucial role in protein synthesis, which basically means building stronger muscles, bones, and tissues (got those gains!).

But that’s not all–ly-si-ne has also been found to support immune function, skin and tissue repair (you’ll look like new!), lower anxiety levels (bye-bye stress) reduce symptoms of herpes (woohoo!), prevent cold sores…shall we go on?

Now let’s add an L(little),

So Why Does ‘L’ Matter?

Here comes the chemistry lesson…brace yourselves!

There are actually two forms of lysine: left-handed (called L-lysine) and right-handed (called D-lysine). Scientifically speaking they are mirror images of each other–much like your reflection in the bathroom mirror is reversed compared to when you look at yourself head-on.

The difference between these types becomes important because our bodies only absorb/recognize one type—specifically LEFT-HANDED (L-lys-yne; see where we’re going?). This makes sense considering our DNA sequences dictate their formation specifically from “left-handed” molecules().

“L”imited Information

Complicating this matter even further is the fact that most manufacturers don’t let us know which form we are taking. This isn’t to say all lysine supplements on the market contain D-lysine or a mixture of both forms, but there’s just no way [that we know] for you to tell! It’s easy to assume that supplement companies would use L-lysine since our bodies can readily put it to use. But do you really want a lesson in basic supply and demand economics?

So what do I take?

Let’s decipher this puzzle once and for all: If by some miracle the supplement does specify L-Lysine ( jackpot!), then go ahead and take it with confidence–we’d be shocked if your body didn’t absorb/recognize it). Otherwise, play it safe!!! Plan B: increase lysine-rich foods such as watermelon, chicken, fish (sushi run anyone?), dairy products (especially parmesan cheese; looks like we’ll have another excuse…ermmm reason..to indulge) nuts etc.

Even our favorite nutritionist would agree (thanks Google): “It is extremely rare to experience any side effects when consuming appropriate amounts of lysine daily from food sources”.

When Do I Need More Lysine?

If you don’t eat meat regularly or follow a vegan lifestyle ({awkward}) , UNFORTUNATELY you cannot rely on natural / regular diets alone for higher doses needed during certain times such as:

Stress:

Why not try popping an extra dose before exposing yourself at family reunions?? Studies have shown 3000mg daily significantly decreased cortisol levels(bye bye stress!)

Impaired Immune Function:

Not feeling quite up to par because cough cough people weren’t washing their hands nearly enough last year? Try increasing your intake then. According to numerous studies, lysine supports healthy immune function levels.

Herpes cold sores simplex virus

If you’ve ever had a major breakout or even just one random sore popping up at the most inopportune time, you know the struggle is real. Research has shown that supplementing with L-lysine could potentially help reduce both frequency and severity.

Last but not Least: Dosage matters!

DANGER; HIGH VOLTAGE (Not really). No matter what type of supplement you’re taking-we always recommend checking dosage first! High quality natural supplements are often more concentrated than synthetic versions offered by larger brands, meaning it’s important to recognize the amount of milligrams per dose before consumption.

RECOMMENDED DAILY DOSAGE:
Adults can safely consume up to 3g (3,000 milligrams) of supplemental lysine daily (after consulting your physician who may advise you against it if pregnant), while maintenance doses for those using lysine solely to improve health typically fall between 500 mg–1000mg.

The Verdict

Knowing WHICH TYPE of an amino acid like LYSINE is key when deciding which ones we want/need without exacerbating existing dietary problems/concerns. If you have any questions regarding safe dosages or specific concerns related to health challenges mentioned above, we’d suggest reaching out/literally ringing…your healthcare provider right away 🙂

At least now next time someone mentions “lysine” at your local brunch spot(eye-roll) they’ll be able to understand why their vegetarian friend orders a few extra sides!

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