Natural Factors Glycine 500mg - 120 V-Caps

GLYCINE SUPPLEMENTS

Did you know that Glycine is the smallest and simplest amino acid? But don’t be fooled, Glycine is the second most abundant amino acid found in human proteins and its presence is vital to the functioning of all bodily systems. So, should you be supplementing with Glycine?

Glycine is considered a conditionally essential amino acid, meaning the body can produce it; however, in certain instances, its biosynthesis may be inadequate. Despite this classification, research has clearly shown the overwhelming and varied benefits of glycine supplementation well above the amount found in diet or produced by the body.

In a nutshell, glycine is responsible for the breakdown and transport of glycogen and fats for cells; therefore, it directly supports your muscular, immune, digestive and nervous systems. Glycine is also essential to collagen formation (in fact, 1/3 of collagen is glycine), so is crucial to support the growth, maintenance, and function of joints, tendons, ligaments, and skin. In addition, glycine is required for detoxification and the production of glutathione, the body's Master Antioxidant.

Supplementing with glycine, has been shown to support damage caused by neurodegenerative conditions. Also, because of the critical role it plays in nerve and neurotransmitter functions, glycine supplementation can dramatically improve sleep, mental performance, moods, and memory.

Benefits Of Glycine

• Balances Mood & Supports Healthy Sleep


• Enhances Collagen Formation

Who Needs Glycine

Naturopaths will often recommend a glycine supplement to heal and rebuild tissues that line the GI tract, for those with inflammatory bowel diseases (such as leaky gut, IBS, Crohn's, ulcerative colitis, and acid reflux). It’s also often recommended to support optimal collagen production and the formation of stretchy, flexible cartilage to heal injured joints and prevent loss of mobility. Because glycine has a stabilizing effect on the central nervous system, it’s also often recommended to balance mood and improve sleep.

Glycine Supplement Benefits

Supplement Potencies

While glycine supplements may come in different potencies, there is no established daily requirement, so your dosage will depend on the condition of concern. Higher doses of glycine (15–60g) have been safely used without side effects. For chronic or degenerative conditions, speak to a knowledgeable health care practitioner to get more specific dosing instructions.

Supplement Forms

Only one of the twenty amino acids is not in the L- form, and that is glycine because the side chain group is a hydrogen atom. So simply look for glycine or “free-form” glycine on the label.

Supplement Formats

Glycine supplements are widely available in capsule or powder form. Because it’s naturally sweet (⅓ as sweet as granulated sugar), glycine powder can be added to water, juice, your morning smoothie, protein shake, or even to yogurt, oatmeal, and other foods. As a bonus, glycine taken with food reduces postprandial glycemia and controls appetite.

If taking glycine for digestive concerns, consider taking glutamin along with it to provide a powerhouse regimen that will support a healthy GI tract.

When supplementing with glycine for a boost in collagen, consider taking vitamin c as well, because vitamin c optimizes collagen production.

Final Thoughts

Glycine supplements are well-tolerated in both capsule and powder form. They also rarely cause side effects. Uncommon but potential side effects include nausea, vomiting, and upset stomach.

Speak to your health care practitioner before taking glycine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding or have liver or kidney disease.