Published On By Rachel Nall

Lysine supplements claim to provide you with L-lysine, an essential amino acid that could be lacking in your diet. They may help promote skin health, strengthen bones, support immunity, and aid in muscle recovery.

Lysine supplements may also assist in collagen production, which is essential for skin and joint health. L-lysine supplements might also help tackle cold sores by suppressing the activity of the herpes simplex virus.

Although lysine supplements might be typically safe for most people, they do carry some potential risks. Lysine supplements may trigger abdominal pain, diarrhea, inflammation in the kidney, etc.

In this guide, we explore the 7 best lysine supplements, outlining their benefits, unique features, and potential risks to help you choose a suitable option for your health goals.

What Is Lysine Supplement?

A lysine supplement provides L-lysine, an essential amino acid your body needs to function at its best. Since your body can’t produce lysine on its own, you must get it from your diet or through supplementation.

Lysine supplements are typically available in capsule, tablet, or powdered form. They could help ensure you get around 30mg of lysine per kg of body weight, which is a standard lysine recommendation for adults.

The purpose of lysine supplementation is to help meet your body’s daily amino acid needs while delivering potential benefits. Lysine is required for protein synthesis, a process where your body stimulates the repair of damaged muscle fibers that support muscle growth.

Taking lysine supplements might also enhance calcium absorption, promote bone health, and strengthen immune system by helping in the production of antibodies and enzymes that combat infections.

Supplementing with lysine could also support a healthy metabolism, aid in the synthesis of carnitine compounds that convert fat into energy, and help lower stress by balancing hormones.

While lysine supplements might be safe, they might not be suitable for everyone. L-lysine supplements may lead to side effects like upset stomach, diarrhea, or mild bloating. It might also be unsafe if you have pre-existing health conditions, such as kidney or liver-related issues.

7 Best Lysine Supplements

  1. Puritan’s Pride L-lysine Supplement

    Puritan's Pride L-lysine Supplement

    Puritan’s Pride L-lysine supplement provides 1,000mg of L-lysine HCl. They may help stimulate protein synthesis, which is vital for tissue repair, muscle growth, and recovery. It could also support collagen production, which helps maintain healthy skin, strong joints, and proper wound healing.

    L-lysine from Puritan’s Pride could also improve calcium absorption, which is important for keeping your bones and teeth strong while supporting a healthy immune system. However, it might trigger stomach pain, nausea, or bloating.

    The makers state that Puritan’s Pride L-lysine does not contain common allergens like soy, fish, gluten, sugar, starch, and preservatives. Such composition could make it a clean and safe lysine supplement, especially if you have specific dietary preferences.

    Pros & Cons

    Pros

    • It provides 1,000mg of L-lysine HCl per capsule.
    • Puritan’s Pride L-lysine features free-form L-lysine, which your body could absorb more effectively.
    • It might help with protein synthesis, collagen production, and calcium absorption.
    • Puritan’s Pride L-lysine supplement is free from common allergens like soy, gluten, sugar, and preservatives.

    Cons

    • Does not include nutrients like arginine or vitamins for added benefits.
    • It might cause digestive issues like bloating or stomach discomfort in some people.
    • Only available in capsule form with no flavored powder option.
  2. Horbäach L-lysine Supplement

    Horbäach L-lysine Supplement

    Horbäach’s L-lysine supplement provides 1,000mg of L-lysine hydrochloride in its 2-caplet serving. L-lysine could also help your body absorb calcium, promoting stronger bones and teeth. It might support your immune system and reduce the likelihood of cold sores.

    Horbäach’s L-lysine supplement is said to be USDA Organic certified, ensuring it meets high standards for organic ingredients. It is also free from artificial preservatives, GMOs, and common allergens like gluten, yeast, and soy.

    Pros & Cons

    Pros

    • The hydrochloride form of lysine from Horbäach might be easier for your body to absorb and use, enhancing the supplement’s effectiveness.
    • Each serving (2 caplets) provides 1,000mg of L-lysine, offering a strong dose if you’re looking to meet your daily lysine needs.
    • It may help improve calcium absorption, which is important for strengthening bones and teeth.
    • Horbäach L-lysine supplement is free from common allergens like gluten, yeast, and soy.
    • It could help support a healthy immune response, as L-lysine might help tackle infectious diseases like cold sore outbreaks.
    • It is made in state-of-the-art GMP-certified lab facilities in the US that follow strict quality and safety standards during manufacturing to ensure consistency and purity.

    Cons

    • The large size of Horbäach caplets may be difficult for some users to swallow comfortably.
    • You might not find any subscription or bulk savings options with Horbäach, which may limit your ability to save on costs.
    • It might be slightly more expensive than other L-lysine supplements with similar dosages.
  3. Bulk Supplements L-lysine Powder

    Bulk Supplements L-lysine Powder

    Bulk Supplements L-lysine HCL powder features 1,000mg of L-lysine HCL. It’s available in 100g to 5kg packs, making it a convenient and cost-effective option if you want a larger supply.

    L-lysine HCL powder may help elevate your mood by balancing serotonin levels, which could lower anxiety and stress levels. It might also improve physical performance by reducing fatigue and speeding up muscle recovery post-exercise.

    Bulk Supplements L-lysine HCL powder is vegan, gluten-free, and free from common allergens like soy, dairy, and added sugars. However, some users may find it inconvenient to measure the powder each time, and it might have a neutral taste when mixed with liquids.

    Pros & Cons

    Pros

    • Bulk Supplements L-lysine HCL powder offers multiple size options, making it more affordable when purchasing in bulk.
    • The powder form of L-lysine allows you to add it to shakes or drinks, providing flexible and customizable dosing.
    • When combined with resistance training, Bulk Supplements of L-lysine HCL powder may help support muscle gains and strength.
    • It claims to contain no added ingredients or harmful additives, ensuring that you receive a safe and clean lysine supplement.
    • The subscription purchase option from Bulk Supplements might help you save extra when purchasing larger quantities.

    Cons

    • The lack of a measuring scoop could make it difficult to measure your desired dosage accurately.
    • As a powder, it may require extra effort to prepare, which might not be convenient for those who prefer quick and easy options like pills.
    • The Bulk Supplements L-lysine HCL powder may have a bland taste when mixed with liquids, which some users may find unappealing.
  4. Vimergy L-lysine Supplement

    Vimergy L-lysine Supplement

    Vimergy L-Lysine supplement provides 500mg of L-lysine HCL in each capsule, sourced from vegan ingredients. It comes in two sizes, 90 and 270 capsules, and you only need to take one capsule per day, making it last longer and easy to include in your daily routine.

    L-lysine may help your body synthesize collagen, a protein that’s essential to ensure the health of your skin, hair, nails, and internal tissues like ligaments and blood vessels. It might also help encourage carnitine production, which may help your body burn more fat to generate energy.

    The makers state that the Vimergy L-Lysine supplement is free from gluten, GMOs, and unnecessary fillers. It’s vegan and paleo-friendly and free from gelling agents, corn, soy, or alcohol.

    However, it’s worth noting that the dosage of 500mg per capsule may be lower than other L-lysine supplements, which often provide higher doses.

    Pros & Cons

    Pros

    • It offers a vegan-based source of L-lysine supplementation.
    • Vimergy’s lysine may help with metabolism and support lean body mass development, which might support your weight loss goals over time.
    • It is free from unnecessary colors, fillers, alcohol, and gelling agents like carrageenan, which may indicate a clean and safe lysine supplement.
    • Vimergy L-lysine supplement is compatible with paleo diets and is gluten-free.
    • It is triple third-party verified for quality assurance.
    • Each capsule from Vimergy provides 500mg of L-lysine.

    Cons

    • Vimergy’s L-Lysine supplement may be more expensive than other brands offering similar products.
    • It may not offer significant discounts for bulk purchases, making it less cost-effective for those looking for larger supplies.
    • As a capsule-based supplement, it doesn’t offer any flavored alternatives for those who prefer powders or liquid forms.
  5. Life Extension L-lysine Supplement

    Life Extension L-lysine Supplement

    Life Extension L-Lysine supplement provides 620mg of L-lysine HCL per capsule, with 100 capsules in each bottle. The dosage may be suitable for those who find a 500mg dose of lysine too low but prefer a more moderate amount than higher doses like 1,000mg.

    Consistent use of Life Extension L-Lysine could help maintain nitrogen balance within the body, which is essential for healthy muscle function and overall cellular repair. When nitrogen balance is maintained, it may help optimize metabolic processes and support faster muscle recovery.

    Besides supporting muscle function, Life Extension L-Lysine might help reduce the effects of glycation, a process in which high blood sugar levels damage proteins and lipids. The damage may otherwise disrupt the normal function of cells and accelerate age-related concerns.

    Pros & Cons

    Pros

    • At 620mg per capsule, Life Extension may offer a balanced dose of L-lysine.
    • With 100 capsules in each bottle, Life Extension might offer a generous supply of L-lysine that may last for multiple months.
    • Life Extension provides a 365-day refund policy on orders, reflecting confidence in the quality and effectiveness of its products.
    • It offers a non-GMO, vegetarian, and gluten-free formulation.
    • L-lysine might help support the immune system by supporting the production of antibodies and enzymes that fight infections.

    Cons

    • It offers just 620mg of lysine per capsule, which might not suit the needs of those users looking for a high-potency lysine formulation.
    • You might experience mild gastrointestinal issues such as nausea and stomach ache after taking Life Extension L-lysine capsules.
  6. Solgar L-lysine Supplement

    Solgar L-lysine Supplement

    According to the official site, Solgar L-Lysine supplement provides 1000mg of free-form L-lysine per serving. The free-form L-lysine means lysine in its purest form, which could make it easier for your body to absorb and use lysine more effectively.

    Solgar L-Lysine supplement may help support your immune system, promote muscle repair, and improve skin health and complexion. Solgar L-Lysine supplement is available in bottles with 100 or 250 tablets, so you may choose the size that best fits your needs.

    The makers state that Solgar ensures strict quality control standards by using small-batch production. It is made in the USA with high-quality, globally sourced ingredients, which claim to be free from gluten, wheat, yeast, sugar, salt, artificial flavors, and sweeteners.

    Solgar also follows high manufacturing standards, including using filtered water (as USP Water Filtration) and clean air (as HEPA Air Filtration). These production standards might help ensure that Solgar L-lysine supplements remain clean and safe for consumption.

    Pros & Cons

    Pros

    • Solgar L-lysine supplement claims to utilize a science-backed formula that may support muscle protein synthesis, immunity, and skin health.
    • It is manufactured in small batches under strict quality standards, using advanced filtration systems like USP water and HEPA air filtration.
    • The availability of lysine in free form in Solgar could make it gentle on the stomach and easy to absorb in your body, making it convenient for daily use.
    • Solgar L-lysine supplement contains non-GMO, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free ingredients, meaning it may offer a clean and safe lysine formula.
    • The tablet form of Solgar L-lysine could make it simple to take and ensure consistent dosing, unlike powders or liquids that may require measuring.

    Cons

    • L-lysine could increase histamine levels, potentially causing discomfort for users who are sensitive to histamines.
    • It might take months of consistent use before observing noticeable benefits like reduced cold sores or improved muscle recovery with Solgar L-lysine supplement.
    • If you have pre-existing kidney concerns, you should exercise caution when taking lysine, as it may trigger renal (kidney) toxicity when paired with some antibiotics.
  7. Zenith Nutrition L-lysine Supplement

    Zenith Nutrition L-lysine Supplement

    Zenith Nutrition’s L-lysine may offer immune support by enhancing the production of antibodies like IgG and could have antiviral properties to help combat viruses such as herpes and the common cold. Each capsule contains 500mg of lysine and may aid in collagen production, which may promote healthy skin, bones, and joints while potentially speeding up wound healing and tissue repair. It might help decrease stress and anxiety by blocking stress receptors and binding to serotonin receptors in the brain, which could promote relaxation.

    Pros & Cons

    Pros

    • It may enhance the immune system by boosting the production of antibodies and offering antiviral properties.
    • Consistent use of Zenith Nutrition L-Lysine may help maintain optimal nitrogen balance, which might support muscle health and recovery.
    • It contains no preservatives, corn, soy, dairy, yeast, or gluten.

    Cons

    • High doses of lysine might cause gastrointestinal discomfort, such as diarrhea, nausea, or stomach cramps in some people.
    • The benefits might take time to become noticeable, requiring regular and long-term use for optimal results.
    • The lack of subscription or bulk savings options on Zenith Nutrition L-Lysine could make it costly, especially if you’re seeking a larger supply.

How Does Lysine Supplement Work?

Lysine supplements provide L-lysine that may encourage protein synthesis. Once ingested, L-lysine is absorbed into your bloodstream and helps repair and regrow damaged muscle proteins, which might support faster recovery after exercise.

Taking L-lysine supplements may also stimulate collagen production. Collagen is a structural protein that can maintain the integrity of your skin, cartilage, and bones. Lysine may help your body produce collagen by linking collagen molecules together. Such effects may help improve skin elasticity, promote joint health, and accelerate recovery from injuries.

L-lysine supplements may support the production of carnitine, a compound that might help move fat into your cells to generate more energy. Since lysine could help synthesize carnitine, taking L-lysine supplements might help your body burn fat more efficiently over time.

Using L-lysine supplements may help your body take in more calcium from food. Better calcium absorption means L-lysine could help make your bones stronger and might reduce the risk of bone issues like osteoporosis, especially as you age.

Potential Side Effects of Lysine Supplements

  1. Digestive Discomfort

    Taking L-lysine supplements may cause mild digestive issues. You might experience symptoms like stomach pain, nausea, diarrhea, or bloating after using L-lysine supplements. It might happen because your digestive system has to process the extra amino acid, which might irritate your stomach or intestines.

    For most people, these gastrointestinal side effects are temporary and mild, but if they persist, you may need to lower your dose or take lysine supplements with food. If you experience severe or ongoing stomach issues, it’s best to stop taking lysine supplements altogether.

  2. Kidney Overload Or Dysfunction Risk

    High doses of L-lysine (above 30mg per kg of body weight) might put extra strain on your kidneys, especially if you already have pre-existing kidney health concerns like chronic kidney disease. In rare cases, it may increase the risk of kidney dysfunction.

    Your kidneys are responsible for filtering amino acids like lysine, and taking excessive doses of L-lysine could make them work harder than normal. Staying hydrated throughout the day and consulting a doctor in case of pre-existing kidney concerns might help.

  3. Skin Irritation Or Rashes

    L-lysine supplements might cause skin-related side effects, such as rashes or irritation. It could be a result of an allergic reaction or your body’s sensitivity to one of the inactive ingredients in the L-lysine supplement, like binders or fillers.

    In some cases, lysine supplements might interfere with collagen metabolism, which could temporarily affect your skin’s texture or hydration. If you notice any skin changes after starting L-lysine supplementation, stop using them and evaluate whether it’s the cause.

  4. Headaches Or Dizziness

    You might experience headaches or dizziness when taking L-lysine supplements. While it is uncommon, headaches could happen if your body reacts to an increased intake of amino acids or if lysine affects your blood pressure.

    For some users, L-lysine intake may cause a slight drop in blood pressure, leading to lightheadedness, especially if they already have low blood pressure. To avoid these symptoms, start with a low dose and monitor how your body responds.

How to Choose The Best Lysine Supplements?

  1. Form Of Supplement

    Lysine supplements are available in several forms, including capsules, tablets, powders, and liquids. Capsules and tablets might be helpful if you’re looking for a quick and convenient means of intake. They come pre-measured, so you don’t have to worry about calculating doses.

    L-lysine powders may offer more flexibility and work better if you struggle with swallowing pills. You may easily mix powdered L-lysine supplements in drinks or smoothies, allowing you to customize your dosage based on your needs.

    Liquid lysine supplements could be helpful if you need faster absorption or have trouble with pills and powders. They are often flavored, making them more palatable for people who dislike the taste or texture of L-lysine capsules and tablets.

    The best form of L-lysine supplements may depend on your personal preferences, lifestyle, and how well your body absorbs lysine in each form. Think about which lysine form is easiest for you to use consistently and how it fits into your daily routine.

  2. Purity And Quality

    A pure lysine supplement typically has fewer unnecessary ingredients, such as fillers, binders, or artificial additives. These extra ingredients may reduce the amount of lysine you’re getting and might also cause side effects, like digestive issues or allergic reactions.

    Low-quality lysine supplements may contain harmful substances like heavy metals or chemicals, which could negatively affect your health. You should look for lysine supplements with a clear and transparent ingredient list, with the exact amount and doses of its active ingredients.

    Checking for certifications like USP, NSF, or GMP-certified may help indicate that the lysine supplement has passed testing for both quality and safety. You should also look for a third-party testing seal, as it may help verify that the lysine formula is free from harmful contaminants and contains the correct amount of lysine.

  3. Dosage

    The amount of lysine you should take each day may depend on your specific needs. For general health support, you should look for lysine supplements that offer a typical daily dosage ranging from 500mg–1000mg per serving.

    However, the dosage may vary depending on why you are taking lysine. For example, suppose you are using lysine to boost your immune system or minimize cold sores. In that case, your dosage might be different from someone using it for muscle recovery or improving collagen production.

    To ensure you’re taking the right amount, it’s important to follow the L-lysine dosage guidelines provided on the product label of the lysine supplement.

  4. Brand Reputation

    When selecting a lysine supplement, choosing a well-established brand may help indicate that the L-lysine supplement is safe and effective. Trusted brands might use high-quality ingredients, follow good manufacturing practices, and ensure their products meet safety standards.

    You should look for labels like Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) or NSF Certified for Sport. These certifications might help indicate that the L-lysine supplement has undergone testing for safety and consistency.

    Researching customer reviews may also help you gauge a brand’s reliability, as reviews might give you insights into how effective the lysine supplement is for others. A lysine brand with a strong, positive reputation is more likely to offer better customer support.

  5. Third-Party Testing

    You should look for L-lysine supplements that have undergone third-party testing. It means an independent lab, separate from the manufacturer, has tested the lysine supplement to verify it contains the correct amount of lysine as stated on the label.

    Third-party testing may also ensure the lysine formula does not comprise harmful contaminants, such as heavy metals (like lead or mercury), pesticides, or other chemicals. These tests may assess how well your body can absorb the lysine (bioavailability) and whether it remains stable and effective over time.

  6. Price

    When choosing a lysine supplement, price is an important factor to consider. However, it’s important not to choose a lysine supplement based solely on price. Cheaper supplements might contain fewer active ingredients or use lower-quality ingredients, which could make them less effective or potentially unsafe.

    To evaluate whether a lysine supplement could provide good value, check the cost per serving. For example, in the US, you might find L-lysine supplements priced anywhere from $10–$30 for a 30-day supply, depending on brand and quality.

    The cost per serving could range from around $0.30 to $1, depending on the dosage and whether it includes any added ingredients or benefits. Opting for larger bottles or multi-month supplies may often cost less per serving.

  7. Customer Reviews and Testimonials

    You should go through customer reviews and testimonials on the lysine supplement’s official website and trusted platforms like Amazon and Trust Pilot. Doing so may help provide insights into how well the lysine supplement worked for other users and if they experienced any adverse effects.

    Look for reviews that may describe the specific benefits the user experienced, such as improved immune support, reduced cold sore outbreaks, or faster muscle recovery. Also, look for any negative user reviews that may highlight negative experiences or side effects with the brands.

    You should also look for comparisons with other lysine supplement brands, where users may share how the lysine supplement compares in terms of price, quality, and results. Considering both the positive and negative feedback might help you make a more informed purchase decision.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Is It Better To Take Lysine In Pill Or Powder Form?
    When choosing between lysine supplements in pill or powder form, consider your convenience and dosage needs. Lysine pills may offer ease of use, while powders could allow for flexible dosing.
  2. What Are The Signs Of Lysine Deficiency?
    If you’re experiencing fatigue, irritability, or weakened immunity, these could be signs indicative of lysine deficiency. You might also notice slow wound healing or hair loss, indicating your body’s need for this essential amino acid.
  3. Can L-lysine Supplements Help With Anxiety Or Stress Relief?
    L-lysine, when paired with other amino acids like L-theanine, may have a mild calming effect that might help reduce anxiety levels. However, personal results and experiences with L-lysine may vary from person to person.

Conclusion

L-lysine supplements might improve skin health, support strong bones, and optimize fat burning. For athletes or physically active people, L-Lysine may assist with muscle recovery and reduce muscle breakdown, which may help improve their performance.

When selecting an L-Lysine supplement, it’s important to consider your preferences and needs. You should look out for factors like cost per serving, form of L-lysine supplement, quality standards, dosage, and price to help make an informed purchase decision.

Though L-lysine supplements are typically safe for use, you should consume them in moderation. Common side effects associated with L-lysine may include stomach upset, nausea, kidney strain, or diarrhea.

Disclaimer
  • The information in this guide is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice.
  • It is not recommended to disregard/delay seeking professional medical advice or treatment because of what you read or accessed through this guide.
  • The results may vary from individual to individual.
  • Consult your doctor for any underlying medical conditions or if you are on any prescribed medicines before using any product.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *