Although lysine supplements are beneficial for the body, they have their own share of side effects. Let us study these side effects with the help of this write up.
Lysine is one of the essential amino acids, which is derived from the food we eat. It is a building block of proteins that aids in healthy growth of the body. Normal people get sufficient lysine from their daily diet. However, athletes and burn patients require more of this amino acid supplement. People with a deficiency of this amino acid are bound to suffer fatigue, dizziness, nausea, anemia, loss of appetite and reproductive disorders. However, anything in excess in body results in a health anomaly.
Negative Impact of Lysine on Health
☞ An overdose can result in some serious allergic reactions for certain people. There have been cases, where the ill effects of this nutritional supplement have been severe. Swelling of face, lips and tongue, difficulty in breathing and closing of throat have been some intense symptoms observed in patients who have consumed excess supplements containing lysine.
☞ Supplements should never be taken without a prescription from the doctor or your health care provider. This is specially a warning for people who are already being treated with antibiotics like gentamicin, tobramycin, amikacin, kanamycin, netilmicin, neomycin, streptomycin and tobramycin. These medication on reaction with lysine supplements can prove to be a lethal combination with adverse effects on the patient.
☞ United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved of lysine supplement as a treatment for any disease or ailment. Hence, it should not be used a substitute for prescription medications. The main reason for this declaration by FDA is, the potential risks and side effects of this supplement with many medications are still under study and are not much known. People who have suffered from too many side effects of lysine can report to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
☞ One of the major reasons indicating latent side effects of the supplements is that many marketed herbal supplements containing this amino acid, have been found to be contaminated with heavy metals and health harming drugs. Additionally, there are no regulated manufacturing standards for these supplements. An overdose of Lysine can result in a life-threatening condition. If you come across any case like that, immediately call an emergency room or a poison control center for treatment.
☞ People suffering from ailments concerning liver, heart or kidney and from allergic reactions, are strictly advised against consuming lysine supplements. Also its effects on pregnancy and nursing infants are not much known.
☞ Excessive consumption have shown considerable increase in bad cholesterol levels, hardening arteries and hampering blood circulation. Inadequate blood supply to the heart can lead to stroke, heart attacks and other cardiovascular problems. This supplement has also caused gallstones, stomach cramps and diarrhea. Rise in bad cholesterol levels can lead to many cardiovascular and respiratory ailments. It is better to consult your health care provider before you treat yourself with such medications, based on your own assumptions.
Lysine is already a part of our daily diet. Some of the lysine rich foods include:
- Meat
- Fish
- Eggs
- Whole grains
- Cheese (Edam, Gouda, Gruyere and Parmesan)
- Parsley
- Seaweed (spirulina)
- Skimmed yogurt
- Vegetables (celery, pumpkin, peas and cauliflower)
- Fruits (apples, bananas, apricots and pears)
Being an essential amino acid, it is also an anti aging factor that helps in repair of cells and tissue. Besides, it has been observed that lysine supplements inhibit the growth of herpes virus, by stalling the viral infestation. However, too much consumption can result in side effects like amino acid imbalance. A minimum dosage of 500 mg twice a day, is advised for availing l-lysine benefits. People suffering from osteoporosis have been benefited maximum by consuming l-lysine supplements with calcium to strengthen the bones and tissue
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is solely for educating the reader. It is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of a medical expert.
