Invest in Your Hair, it is the Crown you Never Take Off. – Unknown

L-lysine for Hair Health

In my previous post, Stop Hair Shedding + Book Review of “8 Steps to Reverse Your PCOS”, I sited very critical information for optimal hair growth from The Journal of Cosmetic Science:

The main cause [for Hair loss] appears to be depleted iron stores, compromised by a suboptimal intake of the essential amino acid l-lysine. Correction of these imbalances stops the excessive hair loss and returns the hair back to its former glory. However, it can take many months to redress the situation. – Journal of cosmetic science

What is L-lysine?

L-lysine is one of nine essential amino acids (the building blocks for protein) needed in the body for repair and growth. In fact, the the body cannot make l-lysine on its own, so this means we must eat foods that contain l-lysine in order to gain its benefits. It can be taken orally, but is best absorbed from food sources. Animals sources contain the highest amounts of l-lysine, but there are a few plant-based sources of this amino acid.

Role of L-lysine in the Body

L-lysine helps to make our connective tissues, form collagen (when combined with vitamin C), convert fat into energy, as well as absorb calcium. Supplementation of L-lysine is also used to limit outbreaks of herpes and cold sores according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.

Signs & Symptoms of L-lysine Deficiency

• Hair Loss/Thinning Hair
• Fatigue/Mood Changes
• Poor Concentration
• Appetite Loss
• Poor Growth
• Anemia

Food Sources of L-lysine

• Organic, Pastured Beef/Lamb
• Organic, Pastured Eggs/Poultry
• Wild Fish
• Spirulina
• Parsley/Chives
• Legumes: Lentils/Peas
• Potatoes
• Adzuki Beans
• Pumpkin Seeds
• Mung Beans
• Leeks
• Nuts

Note: Anyone suffering with cysts in their ovaries due to PCOS and irregular ovulation, should consider removing all dairy, including eggs, from the diet according to Anthony William of Medical Medium.

Daily Recommended Intake

According to Dr. Axe, an average sized person (150 lbs) should aim to get as least 800-3,000 milligrams per day of l-lysine. For treatment of a herpes outbreak, 1-3 grams of l-lysine daily could be beneficial. Those who are pregnant or nursing should avoid supplementing this amino acid. Additionally, there are noted side effects from supplementing l-lysine, such as stomach pain, an increase in acne and diarrhea. If choosing to supplement, do so with caution. Start slow and work up gradually as everyone is different in what their body requires. It is always best to consult with your health care practitioner when supplementing. (Axe)

*All information, content, and material of this blog is for informational purposes only and are not intended to serve as a substitute for the diagnosis, and/or medical treatment by a qualified physician.

<3 Eat Your Greens Out

P.S.  Stay tuned for my next post on Iron: Heme vs. Non-Heme and why the difference is important.

Resources:

Rushton D. Hugh, M.J. Norris, R. Dover, and Nina Busuttil. 2002. “Causes of Hair Loss and the Developments in Hair Rejuvenation.” International Journal of Cosmetic Science https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1046/j.0412-5463.2001.00110.x

“L-lysine Benefits the Gut, the Brain and Herpes Outbreaks.” https://draxe.com/l-lysine-benefits/

“Foods Highest in Lysine: in Vegetables and Vegetable Products.” http://nutritiondata.self.com/foods-011083000000000000000-1w.html

“Vegetarian Based Food Rich in Lysine.” http://healthyeating.sfgate.com/vegetarian-based-food-rich-lysine-2149.html

“Signs & Symptoms of L-lysine Deficiency,” Livestrong https://www.livestrong.com/article/342821-signs-symptoms-of-lysine-deficiency/

William, A. (2016). “Medical Medium: Life Changing Foods.” Hay House, Inc., Carlsbad, CA