Does Lysine Help Against Herpes?
Some people have found that taking an L-lysine supplement may help reduce the healing time for cold sores as well as prevent future outbreaks. The recommended dose is usually about 1g per day. It has also been suggested that consuming a diet high in L-lysine but low in arginine (both are amino acids) levels can prevent breakouts of HSV-1 and possibly HSV-2. However, there is not enough research to back this claim up. Foods that typically have a high L-lysine level and low arginine level include beans, beef, fish and most fruits, vegetables and dairy products.