Symptoms of fibromyalgia can be relentless, and the chronic nature of the condition makes it especially exhausting. Although there is no remedy for fibromyalgia, treatments are available. In addition to the typical treatments used for the disease, amino acids like lysine may be helpful for some patients. These supplements may not be appropriate for everyone, so talk with your doctor before using supplemental lysine for your fibromyalgia.
Lysine
Lysine, also called L-lysine, is an essential amino acid. Essential amino acids are necessary for health, but the body cannot naturally make it; it has to be obtained through food. Amino acids help make protein. The University of Maryland Medical Center explains that lysine helps make carnitine, which helps lower cholesterol. This amino acid also helps the body absorb calcium and aids in making collagen, which helps make bones, ligaments and tendons. Dietary sources of lysine include meat, cheese, cod, soybeans, nuts and legumes. Supplements are also available.
Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder that is a collection of symptoms that cause pain, tenderness, sleep problems and fatigue. This condition can range in severity, and not every sufferer will have the same symptoms. A hallmark of fibromyalgia is multiple tender points throughout the body and widespread pain. Headaches, irritable bowel syndrome, anxiety or depression and insomnia may be present as well. There is no cure for fibromyalgia, but there are treatments to decrease pain and minimize symptoms. Stress reduction and good nutrition may also help improve the overall well-being of an individual with fibromyalgia, according to the National Fibromyalgia Association.
Effects of Lysine on Fibromyalgia
When you are deficient in lysine, fatigue can occur, and fatigue is also common in patients with fibromyalgia. Making sure you have an adequate lysine intake may help reduce or prevent fatigue. Lysine also helps in the formation of connective tissue and building protein, and individuals with fibromyalgia have been found to have resistance to certain proteins, causing the pain associated with the condition, according to a 2005 study in the "Scandinavian Journal of Rheumatology" by M Ruster et al. More research needs to be done regarding the effects of lysine on fibromyalgia. Talk with your doctor about whether supplemental lysine may have any effect on your symptoms.
Considerations
Lysine should not replace any treatments that your doctor has prescribed for your fibromyalgia. This amino acid is merely a supplement to your existing treatment, and it may not be effective for everyone. Before taking supplemental lysine, talk with your doctor about whether it is safe and appropriate for you. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not take lysine without talking first with their gynecologists.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Lysine; Dr. David Zieve and David Eltz; July 2010
- National Fibromyalgia Association; Fibromyalgia Fact Sheet; 2009
- "Scandinavian Journal of Rheumatology"; Detection of Elevated N Epsilon-Carboxymethyllysine Levels in Muscular Tissue and in Serum of Patients with Fibromyalgia; M Ruster et al; 2005
