Lysine is an essential amino acid found in red meat, fish and dairy products and one of the building blocks of protein. Taking lysine supplements can prove highly effective in the treatment of cold sores by providing a higher does than is readily available through diet alone.
Studies have shown that a thousand mg supplement of lysine can reduce the occurrence of cold sores, and higher doses can be used to help treat the cold sore symptoms. However, since it is inadvisable to take high doses for long periods of time a lower dose should be returned to when the outbreak has cleared.
