Amino acids are building blocks of protein, and lysine is one of them. This is one of the 9 essential amino acids that are produced by the body. Lysine helps in proper calcium absorption and creation of collagen. It’s also vital in carnitine production, which is a nutrient that helps lower the level of cholesterol and turn fatty acids to energy. This amino acid is also used in treating herpes. The recommended daily intake or RDI of lysine is 13.6 mg per pound or 30 mg per kilogram of the total body weight.
Low level of lysine in the body can cause fatigue, blood shot eyes, and anemia. If you have lysine deficiency, you can eat foods high in lysine to meet the demands of your body and keep it working properly. Here are some of the foods that have the highest amount of lysine to add in your diet.
1. White Beans
White beans are affordable, versatile, and healthy. They are high in B vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. They also contain lysine. One cup or 179 grams of white beans gives 1196 mg of lysine or 57% RDI. Other types of beans are also high in lysine including, garbanzo beans with 46% RDI of lysine per cup, black beans with 50% RDI, kidney beans with 51%, lentils with 59%, split peas with 56%, yellow beans with 53%, and roman beans with 54%.
