Glycine is one of the three amino acids which take part in the formation of glutathione, a tripeptide which is made up of glutamic acid, cysteine and glycine. Glutathione, which has been described elsewhere in this database, is one of the most important antioxidants in nature.
Glycine is the one of the three amino acids which are rarest in nature; it is simple in its structure and does not have any L- or D-forms. Together with glutamine and niacin (vitamin B3), glycine promotes the body’s production of growth hormone. It is accumulated in the body and works as a reservoir for the formation of non-essential amino acids, RNA, and DNA. Large doses, preferably in the form of pre-digested collagen, are therefore good at helping to stimulate the healing power of the skin.
It also induces the formation of haemoglobin. In the body, it is transformed into creatine which is important for muscular activity and therefore sports. It promotes hormonal balance, is a detoxifier, protects against free radicals, and is good for muscle health.
Glycine therapy seems promising to many areas of treatment, but much of the existing material appears to be vague, creating the need for further study. The advantage of this amino acid is that it is known to be harmless even in large doses.
Caution!
Diabetics should be aware that glycine can increase the blood sugar level.
