L-lysine
5 products
L-lysine is an essential amino acid that your body cannot make itself. Here you will find it as a food supplement in tablets, capsules and powder.
Learn moreShow filters
5 products
What is L-lysine?
L-lysine is one of the essential amino acids. Your body cannot produce it, so it has to come from food – mainly from protein-rich foods such as meat, fish, dairy products, eggs and legumes like lentils and beans. As a food supplement, lysine is sold on its own or in combination with other nutrients.
In most products, lysine is present as L-lysine HCl (hydrochloride), a stable form that is easy to put into tablets and capsules. Some labels say free-form, which means the amino acid is not bound in a protein or peptide.
Our range
- NOW Foods L-Lysine – 500 mg and 1000 mg tablets, and a powder.
- Swanson Lysine 500 mg Free-Form – capsules.
- Life Extension L-Lysine 620 mg – capsules.
- Trec Nutrition Vit. C + L-Lysine Powder – lysine combined with vitamin C. For this product: vitamin C contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of skin.
What to look for on the label
- Amount per serving: products range from 500 mg to 1000 mg per tablet or capsule. Check whether the figure refers to one unit or to the full serving.
- Form of lysine: L-lysine HCl is the most common. The label may give the amount of the salt or of lysine itself.
- Tablets, capsules or powder: tablets and capsules give a fixed amount; powder lets you adjust the serving and mix it into a drink.
- Other ingredients: a combination product such as the Trec powder also contains vitamin C, and may contain flavourings or sweeteners.
- Dose: follow the directions on the label.
Food supplements are not a substitute for a varied diet. If you take medicines or are pregnant, ask your doctor first.
Frequently asked questions
Why is lysine called an essential amino acid?
Because the body cannot make it on its own. You get it from food, especially from animal products and legumes.
What is the difference between L-lysine and L-lysine HCl?
L-lysine HCl is lysine bound to hydrochloride, which makes it stable. It is the usual form in supplements; the label shows how much lysine one serving provides.
Tablets or powder?
Tablets are convenient and have no taste. Powder suits you if you want to measure the amount yourself or mix it into a drink.