DrFeb
Health Guide

Lysozyme

Meet Lysozyme: your body's microscopic security guard. Found abundantly in tears, saliva, and mucus, this naturally occurring enzyme acts as a potent antimicrobial agent. It works by targeting and breaking down the cell walls of bacteria, effectively neutralizing threats before they can cause infection. While often associated with breast milk and egg whites, it is also available as a dietary supplement to support gut health and immunity. Think of it as a targeted bouncer for your cells, ensuring a healthy bacterial balance in your body.
Evidence BasedDietary Supplement
Lysozyme
VERIFIED SOURCE

Bio-Activity Analysis

Antimicrobial Activity of Lysozyme

SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION

Y-Axis
Effectiveness (Lysis Speed)
Bacterial Type →

Health Benefits & Sources

Why You Need It

  • Powerful Antimicrobial Defense: Breaks down bacterial cell walls, acting as a first line of defense against pathogens.
  • Gut Health Support: Helps maintain a healthy balance of gut flora by targeting unwanted bacteria.
  • Immune System Boost: Reduces the bacterial load, allowing your immune system to focus on other threats.

Deep Dive

Lysozyme functions as a hydrolytic enzyme, specifically targeting peptidoglycan—a key component of bacterial cell walls. By cleaving these bonds, it causes the bacteria to rupture and die (a process called lysis). This is particularly effective against Gram-positive bacteria. In the gut, this action helps prevent the overgrowth of harmful bacteria, supporting digestion and overall immunity. It is a natural component of the 'gut-immune axis', playing a vital role in maintaining mucosal barrier integrity.

Natural Food Sources

While it is most concentrated in human secretions, you can find Lysozyme in various foods, primarily egg whites.

FoodAmount% DV
Egg White~0.2-0.4% by weightN/A
Human MilkHigh concentrationN/A
Cow's MilkLow concentrationN/A

Supplementation

Lysozyme supplements are derived usually from chicken egg whites. They are often used to support gut health, reduce inflammation, and enhance immune response. Typical dosages range from 100mg to 500mg daily, but always follow the product label or a healthcare provider's advice.

Top Food Sources

Raw Egg White
Approx. 0.2-0.4% of total weight
Human Breast Milk
Natural infant protection
Cow's Milk
Trace amounts present
Fermented Foods
May contain bacterial lysates

Frequently Asked Questions

It is sometimes referred to as 'Muramidase'.
No. Lysozyme supplements are derived from egg whites. Taking them could trigger a severe allergic reaction.
Yes, like most proteins, Lysozyme denatures (loses its enzymatic activity) when exposed to high heat, such as boiling or frying.
No. Lysozyme specifically targets bacteria by breaking down their cell walls. Viruses do not have cell walls, so Lysozyme does not affect them.

Safety & Side Effects

Lysozyme is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA, especially when consumed via food. However, egg allergies are the primary concern. Anyone with a known egg allergy should strictly avoid Lysozyme supplements. High doses may cause mild digestive upset in sensitive individuals.

Scientific References

  • [1]Calder, P. C. (2013). 'Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and inflammatory processes: nutrition or pharmacology?'.
  • [2]Ragland, S. A., & Criss, A. K. (2017). 'From bacterial killing to immune regulation: The role of lysozyme'.
  • [3]Mine, Y., & Kovacs-Nolan, J. (2012). 'Chicken egg yolk antibodies (IgY) as alternatives to mammalian antibodies'.