Cold Sores & Lysine

I recently received a call from my cold-sore-stricken sister who was desperately seeking a cure for the painful sore on her lip. She did some on-line research and found a supplement I was unfamiliar with... until now. She had come across lysine, an amino acid known for its anti-viral properties. It helps prevent outbreaks of cold sores and is needed for hormone production and the growth and maintenance of bones in both children and adults. Lysine is involved in the production off antibodies for a strong, healthy immune system, which may be part of the reason it is so effective at fighting viruses associated with cold sores.

Lysine supplements have also been used to prevent eruptions of shingles and it is even more effective if taken in conjunction with vitamin C, bioflavonoid and Zinc. This amino acid promotes the formation of both collagen and muscle protein, and may help speed recovery from surgery and sports injuries as well. Lysine is one of the essential amino acids, which means it cannot be manufactured in the body and must be obtained from dietary sources. Good sources of lysine include cheese, eggs, fish, lima beans, milk, potatoes, red meat, soy products, and yeast. Most people get enough lysine from their diet, but there have been recorded cases of lysine deficiency, particularly in those that have a low-protein diet or eating disorder. A lysine deficiency may include symptoms of bloodshot eyes, hair loss, an inability to concentrate, irritability, lack of energy, poor appetite, reproductive disorders, delayed growth, and weight loss- not to mention cold sores.

Stress and illness, particularly the flu and the common cold, increase the likelihood of an outbreak, there is still no definitive answer as to what causes cold sores, but be sure to wash your hands and to avoid touching your face during a cold sore occurrence.

-Community Assistant