If you’ve ever had a canker sore, you know how painful and annoying it can be. These small ulcers can make eating and talking difficult and often seem to pop up at the most inopportune times.
While canker sores can be a nuisance, they’re pretty standard. In fact, according to the American Dental Association, about 20% of people experience them at some point in their lives.
Canker sores can be caused by various things, including stress, food allergies, and vitamin deficiencies. One common remedy for canker sores is Lysine.
What is Lysine?
Lysine is a vital amino acid that the body needs to function correctly. It helps with growth, energy production, and collagen formation. Most people get enough Lysine from their diet, but athletes, burn patients, and vegans may need more.
Lysine is an essential amino acid necessary for human health, but the body cannot make it. You have to get Lysine from food or supplements. Amino acids like Lysine are the building blocks of protein. Lysine is vital for proper growth and plays an essential role in the production of carnitine, a nutrient responsible for converting fatty acids into energy and helping lower cholesterol. Lysine appears to help the body absorb calcium, and it plays an essential role in forming collagen, a substance necessary for bones and connective tissues, including skin, tendons, and cartilage.
Most people get enough Lysine in their diet from animal proteins such as beef, chicken, and fish.
Vegans may not get enough Lysine from their diet since beans are a significant source of this amino acid, and they do not eat meat or animal products.
How can Lysine cure Canker Sores?
Does it really help? Yes, research supports this.
Canker sore outbreaks can be uncomfortable – but luckily, Lysine may help. Early research suggests that taking a dose of Lysine daily can prevent outbreaks and that taking a high dosage daily can decrease the duration of outbreaks. In one study, 64% of patients considered their symptoms severe, and 25% considered them intolerable without Lysine, compared to 25% and 3% for those taking Lysine. So if you’re prone to canker sores, Lysine could be a lifesaver!
How much Lysine do you need to take?
If taking other amino acid supplements, space out your doses, as taking them all at once can compete for absorption and reduce their effectiveness.
As always, talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement – they can help you determine if Lysine is right for you and determine an appropriate dosage.
Best Food Sources
There are many great sources of Lysine, a nutrient that may help reduce the frequency of cold sores.
Lysine is high amounts in:
- meat
- seafood
- dairy products
It can also be found in smaller amounts in plant-based foods:
- like potatoes
- peppers
- soy products.
Speak to your healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much Lysine should you take for canker sores?
The recommended dose of Lysine for canker sores is 1,000 mg daily if you take it in supplement form. Suppose you are getting l-lysine from natural food sources. You can get slightly more than 1g.
Is it safe to take Lysine for canker sores?
Yes, Lysine is generally considered safe when taken orally in supplement form. Side effects are typically mild and may include stomach upset, diarrhea and bloating. If you experience severe side effects, stop taking l-lysine and speak to your healthcare professional.
What heals canker sores faster?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best way to heal a canker sore may vary depending on its severity and cause. However, some home remedies that may help speed up the healing process include rinsing your mouth with salt water, Luminance Red, or alum powder. If your canker sores are severe or persistent, you should speak to your healthcare professional for advice on treatment options.
How can I get rid of a canker sore overnight?
There is no guaranteed way to get rid of a canker sore overnight, but home remedies such as rinsing your mouth with salt water or using a topical product like Luminance Red may help speed up the healing process. If you want to get rid of it as fast as possible, check out this guide with 23 home remedies for canker sores. If your canker sore is severe or persists for more than a week, you should speak to your healthcare professional for advice on treatment options.
What Vitamin Are you lacking when you get canker sores?
There is no specific vitamin you lack when you get canker sores. However, some research suggests that a deficiency in particular vitamins and minerals, such as iron, folic acid, or vitamin B12, may be a risk factor for canker sore development. If you think you may be deficient in any of these nutrients, speak to your healthcare professional about supplementation.
Can kids take lysine for canker sores?
There is no definitive answer to this question, as the safety of lysine supplementation in children has not been extensively studied. If you consider giving l-lysine to your child for canker sores, speak to your healthcare professional first. They can advise you on whether it is appropriate for your child and help you determine an appropriate dosage.
Conclusion
If you’re prone to canker sores, Lysine may be a helpful supplement. The recommended dose is 1,000 mg daily, and it’s best to take it with food. Lysine is high in meat, seafood, and dairy products but can also be found in smaller amounts in plant-based foods like potatoes, peppers, and soy products. Speak to your healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.
