Question
A physical examination revealed that the child has an excessive lysine level, and they usually have a poor constitution, easily feeling tired and having unstable emotions. I would like to know the causes of the excessive lysine level and how to adjust the diet.
Answer
Lysine is one of the essential amino acids required by the body, playing a crucial role in children’s growth, development, and immune system enhancement. It also has the effect of lowering the function of the central nervous system, making lysine intake vital for children’s health. However, due to the low lysine content in grain products and its loss during processing, children may not be getting enough lysine. Symptoms of lysine deficiency include fatigue, weakness, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, decreased appetite, delayed development, and anemia. To adjust lysine levels, it is recommended to increase intake of foods rich in lysine such as meats, fish, dairy products, and legumes, while ensuring a balanced diet to meet the nutritional needs of children.