Does Lysine Reduce Anxiety?

Lysine is an essential amino acid important for protein synthesis and overall health. Beyond its nutritional role, some research suggests lysine may help reduce anxiety by influencing the body’s stress response.

How Lysine Might Affect Anxiety

Lysine appears to interact with receptors in the brain involved in stress and anxiety, particularly serotonin 5-HT4 receptors.

By blocking these receptors, lysine may reduce anxiety symptoms.

It also seems to enhance GABA receptor activity, which has calming effects on the nervous system.

Animal studies have shown that lysine can reduce stress-related behaviors, such as anxiety-induced diarrhea, indicating its potential to modulate stress responses.

What Human Studies Show

In humans, a few clinical trials have found that lysine supplementation can lower anxiety levels and reduce cortisol, the hormone linked to stress.

For example, one study gave healthy adults a combination of lysine and arginine daily for a week and observed reduced anxiety and cortisol levels.

Another study in a population with dietary lysine deficiency showed that adding lysine to their diet helped decrease anxiety scores and stress hormone responses.

While these results are promising, more research is needed to confirm lysine’s effectiveness and understand the best dosages and combinations.

Other Benefits and Considerations

Besides anxiety, lysine supports calcium absorption and may aid bone health. It also plays a role in immune function and tissue repair. Typical doses used in studies range from 2.6 to 4 grams per day, often combined with arginine. Lysine is generally safe when taken appropriately, but consulting a healthcare provider before starting supplements is recommended.