Lysine and Carnitine



Lysine is best known for lessening and preventing herpes infections. It works best at reducing the fever blisters, or cold sores, associated with Herpes simplex type I, that are often found around the mouth. Lysine does not work as well on the genital sores of Herpes simplex type II.

Lysine also helps the body absorb calcium and promotes bone health, this is especially important for post-menopausal women who are often calcium deficient and at risk for bone disease. Lysine has also been show to reduce dental cavities.

Key Uses of Lysine
*Preventing and reducing cold sores

*Helps form collagen and healthy tissues

*Promotes younger looking skin and reduce wrinkles due to collagen formation.

*Used in some programs to help in lowering cholesterol levels



Food Sources:Highest amounts: fish, poultry, diary, wheat germ, legumes

Smaller amounts: grains, peanuts, most vegetables


Carnitine

Lysine is a precursor for the substance carnitine. Carnitine plays a role in metabolizing fat and producing energy. Lysine must be present for the body to manufacture carnitine.

Over the past few years, carnitine has been recognized as an aid for increasing energy and performance; it is becoming increasingly popular with athletes and those with active lifestyles.

Carnitine studies are showing it to be helpful in treating chronic low-energy ailments like chronic fatigue syndrome, and also for weight loss because it may speed up the metabolism and promote activity.

Carnitine is involved in metabolizing and using fats and oils in the body, as well as transporting fatty acids into muscle cells, which are an important energy source for the muscles and can improve workouts.

Key Uses of Carnitine
*Helps convert fats to energy with the cells

*Increasing energy within the muscles

*May improve certain disease such as high cholesterol, abnormal heart rhythms, chronic fatigue, congestive heart failure, and muscle weakness

*Can help repair damaged heart muscle and promote blood flow, especially after a heart attack



Food Sources: Found primarily in red meats, also found in fish, poultry, and milk

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