Lysine, an essential amino acid, is found in protein-rich foods and contributes to a child's bone growth and development. Most children obtain the recommended amount of lysine through dietary sources and rarely rely on lysine supplements. Consult your pediatrician if you suspect your child has a lysine deficiency.
Identification
As a building block of protein, lysine is necessary for proper growth and development. The body uses lysine to produce carnitine, a nutrient needed to transform fatty acids into energy. Lysine also plays a key role in production of collagen, which is crucial for healthy cartilage, connective tissues and skin. Because lysine helps the body absorb calcium, it may help treat and prevent symptoms of osteoporosis. However, more research is necessary to determine the effects of lysine on bone loss and osteoporosis. Lysine supplements are available as a liquid, tablet, capsule or powder at most health food stores.
Herpes Simplex Virus
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, lysine supplements may prevent or reduce the recurrence of cold sore outbreaks. Although the supplement may help treat or reduce symptoms of the herpes simplex virus, no scientific studies have examined the effects of the supplement on children. Consult your child's pediatrician before using lysine supplements to treat cold sore outbreaks.
Dietary Sources
Eating lysine-rich foods is the best way to get a healthy amount of lysine each day. Protein-rich foods containing lysine include eggs, dairy products, soybeans, red meat, sardines, poultry, legumes and parmesan cheese. The essential amino acid is also found in nuts, brewer's yeast, fenugreek seed and spirulina. Although a lysine deficiency is rare, some children may require supplementation if they are unable to obtain the necessary amount through dietary sources. Symptoms of a deficiency include fatigue, anemia, nausea, dizziness and agitation. Before supplementing lysine, talk to your pediatrician about ways to include more lysine in your child's diet.
Adverse Effects
Like other dietary supplements, lysine may cause mild side effects, such as diarrhea, upset stomach, nausea or other gastrointestinal problems. Excessive amounts of lysine may cause gallstones or kidney problems as well. Lysine supplements may also cause an allergic reaction. If your child experiences difficulty breathing, closing of the throat, hives, facial swelling or a rash, seek emergency medical attention.
Warning
Lysine supplements may interact with other medications your child is taking and should only be used under the supervision of a health care professional. Although lysine supplements are considered safe for most people, scientific research on the safety and efficacy of the supplements in children is lacking. Avoid lysine supplements if your child has kidney or liver disease. Always consult your pediatrician before giving your child lysine or any other supplement.
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