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L-lysine is a vital amino acid that the body requires but cannot make. As such, it needs to be acquired through dietary resources. Since it’s a building block for protein, the body uses it for many vital functions like muscle turnover. Further, it aids in the formation of carnitine and transports fat across cells so that it can be burned for energy.
One of its many benefits includes helping with cold sores. A study shows that taking 1,000 mg of l-lysine resulted in fewer cold sores among the participants [1]. Cold sores are from herpes simplex virus (HSV), which can weaken your immune system [2]. Additionally, this amino acid may also improve calcium absorption and retention [3].
Moreover, consuming l-lysine may block stress response receptors. Thus, reducing anxiety according to several studies, including one that was concluded in one week [4]. It can also heal wounds faster, thanks to its impact on forming collagen [5].
This article lists the best l-lysine supplements, which can support your health needs.
Quick Summary
Most Reviewed L-lysine Supplement: NOW Foods, L-Lysine
Best Hypoallergenic L-lysine Supplement: Pure Encapsulations, l-Lysine
Lowest-Priced L-lysine Supplement: Solaray, L-Lysine Monolaurin
| Product Name | L-lysine Content | Price/Amount | Directions To Use |
| NOW Foods, L-Lysine | 1,000 mg | ~$18/250 capsules | Take 1 tablet once to twice daily |
| Solgar, L-Lysine | 1,000 mg | ~$24/250 capsules | Take 1 tablet up to two times daily, between meals. |
| Pure Encapsulations, l-Lysine | 500 mg | ~$13/90 capsules | Take 1 capsule twice daily, between meals |
| Solaray, L-Lysine Monolaurin | 500 mg | ~$12/60 capsules | Take 2 capsules daily with a meal or glass of water |
| Pure Formulas, L-Lysine Complete | 500 mg | ~$15/90 capsules | Take 1 capsule once to thrice daily, between meals |
Best L-lysine Supplements
NOW Foods, L-Lysine
L-LYSINE CONTENT PER SERVING:
1,000 mg
PRICE/NUMBER OF CAPSULES:
~$18/250
DOSAGE RECOMMENDATION:
Take 1 tablet once to twice daily
PROS:
- GMP Quality Assured
- Kosher
- Non-GMO
- No gluten, dairy, egg, and soy
CONS:
- The size of tablets may make them hard to swallow
NOW Foods is a family-owned brand that engages in sustainable sourcing, exclusive testing methods, and transparency at all levels during the process. To cater to more viable users, its l-lysine supplement is halal and suitable for both vegans and vegetarians.
Using this product can help strengthen or maintain a healthy immune function. Not to mention, it may also support collagen formation.
With over 35,000 ratings on different platforms, you can check out plenty of reviews. The consensus is mostly positive, as users said it boosts their immune system as well as helps with sores. Plus, this l-lysine is also good for handling shingles, according to some users. However, the common critique is that the pills are too big.
Solgar, L-Lysine
L-LYSINE CONTENT PER SERVING:
1,000 mg
PRICE/NUMBER OF CAPSULES:
~$24/250
DOSAGE RECOMMENDATION:
Take 1 tablet up to two times daily, between meals.
PROS:
- Non-GMO
- Suitable for vegans
- Free of gluten, dairy, soy, and wheat
- No preservatives, sweeteners, artificial color, and flavor
CONS:
- It’s quite pricey
Founded 75 years ago, Solgar consistently develops formulas that are backed by science. The company has strict raw materials requirements and wants to avoid artificial fillers as much as possible. This l-lysine supplement is no different. Besides the listed pros, the capsules are housed in amber glass bottles that protect them from light, heat, and moisture.
This supplement contains a free form of l-lysine, which promotes maximum absorption. Additionally, it may support skin tissue health and the production of collagen. Thus, strengthening the integrity of the skin and lips.
There are over 5,000 ratings, and the reception is mostly positive. Many of them use this to help with their cold sores as well as boost their immune system. Plus, some also mentioned they use it to improve their skin health.
Pure Encapsulations, l-Lysine
L-LYSINE CONTENT PER SERVING:
500 mg
PRICE/NUMBER OF CAPSULES:
~$13/90
DOSAGE RECOMMENDATION:
Take 1 capsule twice daily, between meals
PROS:
- Non-GMO
- Hypoallergenic
- Gluten-free
- Suitable for vegetarians and vegans
CONS:
- Cheaper than others but less number of capsules
Like other Pure Encapsulations products, this l-lysine supplement has no artificial colors, sweeteners, or flavors. By taking this, it may boost immune functions as it supports the body’s natural immune defenses. Further, it can promote healthy gum and lip tissue.
Feedback for this supplement is excellent, as many are satisfied with its benefits. They use it for cold sore outbreaks or shingles. Some also said it helps with their hair health, while others mentioned it’s great as an immune booster.
Solaray, L-Lysine Monolaurin
L-LYSINE CONTENT PER SERVING:
500 mg
PRICE/NUMBER OF CAPSULES:
~$12/60
DOSAGE RECOMMENDATION:
Take 2 capsules daily with a meal or glass of water
PROS:
- Lab-verified
- Veggie capsules
- Sustainable brand
CONS:
- It’s expensive considering the number of capsules and dosage
Solaray is committed to manufacturing supplements in a sustainable way without reducing quality. For instance, this l-lysine supplement and others are packaged in recycled bottles to lower the brand’s carbon footprint. Moreover, each raw ingredient goes through rigorous testing to guarantee quality, potency, and purity.
This particular product aims to act as immune support for its users. As for feedback, the reviews and ratings for this show it’s well-received. They use it for herpes outbreaks as well as an immune booster. A few also use it to manage chronic pain.
Pure Formulas, L-Lysine Complete
L-LYSINE CONTENT PER SERVING:
500 mg
PRICE/NUMBER OF CAPSULES:
~$15/90
DOSAGE RECOMMENDATION:
Take 1 capsule once to thrice daily, between meals
PROS:
- Non-GMO
- Vegetarian capsules
- GMP certified
CONS:
- Not a lot of information and reviews
Pure Formula specializes in online health and supplement space and offers more than 40,000 products., including this l-lysine. According to the brand, this formula may help with collagen formation. It also helps strengthen the body’s immune system and fight free radicals. Taking this can also promote bone health and aid in the production of carnitine.
Regarding feedback, there aren’t a lot available except for a handful. But from what they said, it seems they’re satisfied with this supplement.
How To Choose The Best L-lysine Supplements
Here are a few reminders on how to choose the best l-lysine supplement for you:
Labels – Before purchasing, check the labels to know the ingredients and dosage. This is important to avoid triggering a reaction, allergic or otherwise. Some ingredients may also interact with your other medication.
Quality – To know if brands are being true to their word, check if their products went through third-party testing. Furthermore, transparency is key to ensuring that what you’re getting is potent, pure, and high-quality.
Brand Reputation – Before buying, it wouldn’t hurt to know more about the brand. See what their process is or how they source ingredients. In addition, you can check their facility and product certifications.
Reviews and Ratings – If your research about brands does not yield enough information, you can always see what actual users are saying. Explore platforms and read their experiences, both the bad and good. That way, you would know what to expect.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best form of L-Lysine supplement to take?
Lysine supplements are available in a variety of forms. You can choose from capsules, powders, and chewables. However, the choice depends on your personal preference, dietary needs, or doctor’s advice.
What is the best way to absorb L-Lysine?
There are numerous food sources where you can get l-lysine, such as meat, fruits, dairy, nuts, and fish. That’s usually the first approach in absorbing this amino acid. Although, l-lysine supplements may be recommended by a doctor depending on your situation.
What happens if you take L-Lysine supplements every day?
The expectations (benefits and risks) depend on what l-lysine supplement you choose. To maximize the best results, follow the brand’s suggested dosage or seek directions from a healthcare professional.
Is there a difference between lysine and L-Lysine?
L-lysine and D-lysine are different chemical forms of lysine. L-lysine is the bioactive form used in supplements and found in foods [6].
Bottomline: Best L-lysine Supplements
L-lysine is essential for various functions of the body. It has many health benefits and is also popular among users. This article listed the best l-lysine supplements that can improve your overall health. They have different price points and dosages that can meet your needs. Hopefully, you’ll find the right one for you!
Disclaimer: This article is only a guide. It does not substitute the advice given by your own healthcare professional. Before making any health-related decision, consult your healthcare professional. We have assembled this article through in-depth research based on the information available at the date of publishing. We may receive a small commission for purchases you make through our links, but this comes at no extra cost to you. This commission allows us to continue doing what we love through Health Plugged, which is delivering evidence-based health information to our readers worldwide.
Editorial References And Fact-Checking
- Thein, D. J., & Hurt, W. C. (1984). Lysine as a prophylactic agent in the treatment of recurrent herpes simplex labialis. Oral surgery, oral medicine, and oral pathology, 58(6), 659–666. https://doi.org/10.1016/0030-4220(84)90030-6
- Singh, B. B., Udani, J., Vinjamury, S. P., Der-Martirosian, C., Gandhi, S., Khorsan, R., Nanjegowda, D., & Singh, V. (2005). Safety and effectiveness of an L-lysine, zinc, and herbal-based product on the treatment of facial and circumoral herpes. Alternative medicine review : a journal of clinical therapeutic, 10(2), 123–127.
- Civitelli, R., Villareal, D. T., Agnusdei, D., Nardi, P., Avioli, L. V., & Gennari, C. (1992). Dietary L-lysine and calcium metabolism in humans. Nutrition (Burbank, Los Angeles County, Calif.), 8(6), 400–405.
- Smriga, M., Ando, T., Akutsu, M., Furukawa, Y., Miwa, K., & Morinaga, Y. (2007). Oral treatment with L-lysine and L-arginine reduces anxiety and basal cortisol levels in healthy humans. Biomedical research (Tokyo, Japan), 28(2), 85–90. https://doi.org/10.2220/biomedres.28.85
- Yamauchi, M., & Sricholpech, M. (2012). Lysine post-translational modifications of collagen. Essays in biochemistry, 52, 113–133. https://doi.org/10.1042/bse0520113
- National Center for Biotechnology Information (2022). PubChem Compound Summary for CID 5962, Lysine. Retrieved October 15, 2022 from https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Lysine.
