Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted disease caused by herpes simplex viruses 1 or 2. When symptoms occur, they appear as itchy, painful sores on or around your genitals or rectum. Cold sores -- painful, fluid-filled blister around your mouth or on your lip -- may also be caused by the herpes simplex type 1 virus. Lysine is occasionally used as a treatment for herpes. It may also be used as a supplement for bodybuilding.
Lysine
Lysine or L-lysine is an essential amino acid and one of the building blocks of protein, which is why it is important to the bodybuilder. Lysine is necessary for health but your body can't manufacture it, so it is often acquired from food. It is offered as a supplement but has not been approved by the FDA for disease treatment. Side effects from lysine are rare but if a serious allergic reaction occurs, such as swelling of your face or throat, seek medical help immediately.
Lysine Sources
A deficiency of lysine might cause a lack of energy, hair loss, weight loss, decreased or no appetite, a loss of concentration and reproductive problems. Most people get enough lysine in their diets, but athletes, vegans who don't eat beans and burn patients may need more. Foods containing lysine include yogurt, fish, pork and other meats, cheese, wheat germ, brewer's yeast, eggs and potatoes. For vegans, beans, peas and lentils are the best sources of lysine.
Lysine and Bodybuilding
Lysine is an amino acid that is very important to growth and development. It helps your body absorb calcium, which aids in muscle growth, mobilizes fat for energy usage, maintains your nitrogen balance and helps to maintain your lean body mass during times of extreme stress and fatigue. According to Bodybuilding.com, lysine is important to bodybuilders because it manufactures muscle protein, it has the ability to combat fatigue and overtraining, and it maintains a positive nitrogen balance that creates an ideal environment for bodybuilding.
Lysine and Herpes
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, some studies have shown that the regular use of lysine can help prevent outbreaks of cold sores and genital herpes. Lysine has been used to treat outbreaks of genital herpes and cold sores. Since lysine has not been approved by the FDA for herpes treatment, it is important to get approval from your doctor before using lysine.
