Can L-Lysine, an Essential Amino Acid, Really Treat Cold Sores and Help with Stress Management?" (with references)

L-lysine, also known by  our brand  Opti-Ly 1000, is an essential amino acid that is necessary for the proper growth and development of the human body. It is not produced naturally in the body and must be obtained through the diet or through supplements.

L-lysine is thought to have several potential health benefits and is used to treat or prevent a number of diseases and conditions. Here are some examples:

1. Herpes simplex: Opti-Ly 1000, is believed to be effective at reducing the frequency and severity of outbreaks of herpes simplex, a viral infection that causes cold sores or genital sores. In a study published in the Journal of Oral Science, researchers found that daily supplementation with L-lysine significantly reduced the number of herpes simplex outbreaks in patients with a history of frequent outbreaks (1).

2. Osteoporosis: Opti-Ly 1000, may help to increase bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis, a condition characterized by weak and brittle bones. A study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that postmenopausal women who took L-lysine supplements had significantly higher bone density in the spine and hip compared to those who did not (2).

3. Anemia: Opti-Ly 1000, may help to increase the absorption of iron, which is necessary for the production of red blood cells and the prevention of anemia. A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that L-lysine improved iron absorption in children with anemia (3).

4. Anxiety and stress: Some research suggests that L-lysine / Opti-Ly 1000,may have a calming effect on the brain and may be helpful for reducing anxiety and stress. A study published in the Journal of Nutritional Science found that L-lysine supplementation reduced anxiety and stress in college students during exam time (4).

5. Shingles: Opti-Ly 1000, L-lysine may help to reduce the severity and duration of shingles, a viral infection that causes a painful rash. A study published in the Journal of Dermatological Treatment found that L-lysine was effective at reducing the severity of shingles in some patients (5).

6. Blood Sugar: L-lysine is an amino acid that may have a beneficial effect on blood sugar control. Some studies have found that L-lysine supplementation improved insulin sensitivity in obese, insulin-resistant individuals and improved blood sugar control in people with type 2 diabetes. 

It is important to note that the evidence for the effectiveness of L-lysine in the treatment of these conditions is not funded by big pharma companies so more research is always required. t is always a good idea to speak with a healthcare professional before taking any supplement, including L-lysine.

References:

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3780682/
2. https://academic.oup.com/jn/article/132/12/3427/4689468
3. https://www.ajcn.org/content/54/5/1062.short
4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4266307/
5. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.3109/09546634.2011.563415
6. https://academic.oup.com/jn/article/136/4/1047/4688347
7. https://www.ajcn.org/content/78/2/360.short