Glycine

Glycine, both an amino acid and neurotransmitter, plays diverse roles in the body, influencing brain function as both a stimulant and depressant. Recognized as conditionally essential, glycine is usually produced in sufficient amounts within the body, sourced from protein-rich foods like meat, eggs, soybeans, lentils, and dairy. It serves as a crucial component in collagen, making up approximately 25% of its weight and, consequently, attracting interest for joint health improvement. In addition to its role in collagen, glycine acts as a neurotransmitter and a precursor to various biomolecules, including creatine and heme. Notably, studies suggest that glycine supplementation can enhance sleep quality, offering potential cognitive benefits, and high doses have demonstrated efficacy in alleviating symptoms of schizophrenia. Furthermore, glycine may play a role in reducing the blood glucose response to carbohydrate ingestion. Despite its recognized functions, additional research is needed to fully understand the extent of glycine's impact, especially in areas such as joint health where human evidence is currently limited.