Glycine is an amino acid and neurotransmitter that is essential for protein production. The human body produces it, but it obtains the necessary amounts mainly through protein-rich foods such as meat, dairy products, or dietary supplements.
Description and main properties of glycine
The main role of glycine is as a building block in the biosynthesis of some proteins. Its content is highest (about 35%) in collagen, where, together with hydroxyproline, it forms a strong triple-helical structure, ensuring the elasticity of skin, tendons, muscles and cartilage.
Glycine helps regulate impulses in the central nervous system, especially those in the spinal cord, retina, and medulla oblongata. As an inhibitory neurotransmitter, it is involved in the processing of motor and sensory information necessary for movement, vision, and hearing.
In addition, glycine stimulates the production of serotonin – the hormone that helps boost mood, improve sleep, and enhance cognitive abilities and memory.
Glycine should generally be obtained from protein-rich foods like meat and dairy, but its best sources—collagen and gelatin—are often overlooked because they're mostly found in parts of animals that most people throw away—skin, bones, connective tissue, tendons, and ligaments.
Benefits of taking glycine
Supports the muscular system
It slows down the breakdown of muscle-building proteins and aids in their recovery. It is considered an anti-aging amino acid because it contributes to the preservation of muscles in old age, stimulates the secretion of growth hormone, prevents the loss of cartilage mass in the joints, and has a beneficial effect on energy, the results of physical exertion, and mental abilities.
Helps restore and protect joints and cartilage
As the main building block of collagen, glycine supports the growth and function of joints, tendons, and ligaments. It plays an important role in building connective tissue, which maintains joint flexibility and resistance to various stresses.
Participates in the synthesis of a powerful antioxidant
Glycine is one of three amino acids used by the body to produce glutathione, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from oxidative damage caused by free radicals. When glycine is deficient, the body produces less glutathione, which negatively affects the way it deals with oxidative stress.
Improves digestion
Amino acids, including glycine and proline, help repair the tissue that lines the digestive tract and prevents food particles and enzymes from entering the bloodstream and causing inflammation. Glycine is involved in the construction of two of the most important substances that form this lining – collagen and gelatin.
Calms the nerves and nourishes the brain
With its role in the metabolic synthesis of substances that provide energy to the brain and nerves, glycine has a beneficial effect on cognitive abilities and the central nervous system. Thus, it improves sleep, mental activity, sensitivity, mood, memory and behavior.
Protects the liver from the harmful effects of alcohol
Glycine reduces the concentration of alcohol by stimulating its processing in the stomach, preventing fatty liver and damage to its cells.
Protects the heart
Scientific studies show that glycine boosts protection against heart disease by preventing the buildup of a substance linked to atherosclerosis, the hardening and narrowing of arteries. The amino acid may also improve the body's ability to use nitric oxide, which increases blood flow and lowers blood pressure.
Research on the benefits of taking glycine is ongoing, but there is evidence that it has a beneficial effect on people suffering from type 2 diabetes, enlarged prostate, certain autoimmune diseases, and others.
Dosage and administration
Application: Contributes to normal brain and cognitive function. Contributes to normal metabolism of proteins, carbohydrates and fats.
Note: Not to be used by pregnant or lactating women, as well as by persons under 18 years of age. Not to be used as a substitute for a varied and nutritious diet. Do not exceed the recommended daily dose.
Recommended daily dose of the product: 2 capsules 1-2 times daily, on an empty stomach.
Storage: In a cool, dry place, out of reach of children, away from direct sunlight.
