Lysine

Lysine – vital amino acid

Lysin ist eine der acht essenziellen Aminosäuren. Essenzielle Aminosäuren können nicht von unserem Körper gebildet werden, sondern müssen durch die Nahrung aufgenommen werden. Lysin ist zugleich der Gegenspieler zu Arginin, das in bestimmten Wachstumsphasen wichtig ist. 

L-lysine was discovered as a component of casein as early as 1889. Animal protein is one of the sources in which lysine is abundant. But legumes and seeds also contain L-lysine. Lysine is also found in small quantities in cereals. However, its occurrence in plant-based food is barely sufficient, especially since plant-based proteins are poorly utilized by our bodies.

Bone, muscle, and connective tissue structure

Lysine is required for the biosynthesis of proteins. The role of L-lysin as a counterpart to L-arginine is essential. The relationship between the two should remain in balance. This balance can be shifted by a one-sided or unfavorable diet. The balance between the amino acids is altered. L-lysine in the form of dietary supplements can therefore contribute to a functioning amino acid balance, especially in special life situations such as growth, age, or convalescence. 

Building material lysine

Another important task for our bodily functions is fulfilled by lysine. It is involved in the formation of the following proteins, which in turn have important functions:

• Haemoglobin
• Lipoproteins
• Transferrin
• Albumin

Lysine – new studies

The tasks of lysine are considerable. A balanced intake of this amino acid via food or dietary supplement is therefore important. Excess lysine is excreted via the kidneys. Only a longer-term, massively excessive intake could have side effects on kidney function, among other things. 

New studies are investigating whether lysine, as an important building block of the amino acids, can bring health benefits – for example, specifically changing the arginine level to the benefit of the test subjects.