Prostate cancer starts with a malignant tumor that grows in your prostate gland. Lysine is an amino acid found in your diet and available as a dietary supplement. Alone, it is shown to exhibit anti-tumor effects. In combination with other nutrients such as vitamin C, green tea extract and proline, it is shown to exert anti-tumor effects against human prostate cancer. You should consult your doctor before taking lysine.
Background
Amino acids are components of protein that help your body build, repair and maintain itself. Lysine is an essential amino acid that you must get from your diet because your body is unable to manufacture it. Protein-rich foods provide a good source of lysine, including beef, pork, poultry, cheese, eggs and fish such as sardines and cod. Lysine helps your body absorb calcium and is needed for proper growth and development.
Tumor Inhibition
Lysine exists in several forms. Researchers at the Institute of Pathology and Experimental Research examined the effects of Polyiso-L-lysine. Researchers injected a group of mice with 23 to 36 milligrams of lysine per pound of body weight for 20 days. The study, published in the May 2002 issue of the journal "Cancer Cell International," found that both doses prevent tumors from spreading. Although this study did not examine prostate tumors specifically, it might be significant.
Prostate Cancer
Matthias Rath Research Center implanted mice with human prostate cancer and examined the effects a nutrient mixture containing lysine, proline, arginine, vitamin C and green tea extract on tumor growth. The study, published in the January to February issue of the journal "In Vivo," found that this nutrient combination significantly suppressed prostate tumor growth without adverse side effects. The study concluded that the data strongly suggest the nutrient mixture has strong potential as an anticancer agent.
Dosage and Precautions
Lysine is available as a dietary supplement in capsule, tablet and liquid form. A typical dose ranges from 3 to 9 grams per day. Taking lysine with antibiotics might cause toxicity, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Lysine is not known to interact with other medications. You should tell your doctor if you are currently taking prescribed medication or have an existing medical condition before taking lysine.
