L-Glycine
Benefits of L-Glycine
- Sleep
- Collagen
- Form: Amino Acid
- Food source: Soy, pumpkin and squash seeds, spinach, legumes, bananas and oranges.
What is L-Glycine?
L-Glycine is an amino acid, one of the building blocks of protein. It also acts as a messenger (a 'neurotransmitter') in the brain and spinal cord. L-Glycine is involved in a range of muscle, metabolic and brain processes in the body.
L-Glycine is also used to build proteins, one of which is collagen. In fact, glycine makes up around a third of the amino acids in collagen.
What does the research say about L-Glycine?
Glycine has been studied for its effects on sleep. Researchers have looked at how glycine acts on the part of the brain that sets our body clock, and at its effect on body temperature, which naturally falls as we drift off. L-Glycine has also been studied for its effect on sleep onset latency, meaning the time it takes to fall asleep.
Collagen gives structure to our skin, hair and joints, and a study of collagen peptides looked at their effects on skin physiology.
You may also enjoy reading 'Suffering from poor sleep? You're not alone', 'How diet impacts your sleep quality' and 'The truth about collagen'.
Why it's in Vegan Nights®
Glycine is a non-essential amino acid that is needed for many biological physiological processes, including sleep regulation.
Sleep-wake cycle regulation: Glycine influences sleep-wake cycles, and its supplementation has been studied for its benefits on sleep quality.1 Glycine’s effects on sleep are mediated by its interaction with other neurotransmitters, such as glutamate and GABA quality. Glycine acts as an inhibitory neurotransmitter, and its release can stimulate the release of GABA, promoting sleep.2
Calms neuro activity: Glycine is a major inhibitory neurotransmitter; it helps calm neural activity, which is crucial for initiating and maintaining sleep. Its interaction with GABA (another inhibitory neurotransmitter) suggests it plays a role in promoting relaxation and deep sleep. Glycine acts as a co-agonist at NMDA receptors; it works with glutamate to regulate excitatory signals in the brain. Proper glycine-glutamate balance is necessary for REM sleep and cognitive function.3
Why it's in Women's ProMulti
Lysine, Proline, and Glycine are three amino acids involved in collagen synthesis and the overall health of connective tissues. L-Lysine is essential for collagen cross-linking, as it is a precursor to hydroxylysine, which strengthens collagen fibres. It also supports tissue repair and immune function. L-Proline is necessary for producing hydroxyproline, an amino acid that stabilises the collagen triple helix, ensuring the strength and integrity of skin, bones, and other connective tissues. Glycine, the most abundant amino acid in collagen, forms the basic structural framework for collagen fibres, contributing to flexibility and resilience. In addition, these amino acids have the following benefits.
L-Glycine functions as an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. It helps regulate neuronal excitability and may promote relaxation, making it beneficial for reducing anxiety and improving sleep quality. L-Glycine is involved in the detoxification processes in the liver. It helps to conjugate toxins, making them more water-soluble and easier for the body to eliminate. L-Glycine supports muscle health by aiding in protein synthesis and energy production. It can enhance physical performance and recovery after exercise.
L-Proline
L-Proline is a unique, skin-loving amino acid that is an essential component of collagen production.
L-Theanine
L-Theanine, known as a 'calming' amino acid, is naturally found in the body and helps your body relax and manage feelings of stress.
Magnesium Citrate
Magnesium is a 'mineral superhero', supporting over 300 processes in the body. It is vital for psychological wellbeing, energy, relaxation, healthy mood, muscles, and bones.
Rhodiola
Rhodiola is a herb with adaptogenic properties and studied for helping us cope calmly with stress, maintain emotional balance, and support stamina.
Selenium
Selenium is an important mineral for the immune system. It also helps maintain healthy hair and nails and is necessary for the use of Iodine in thyroid hormone function.
Zinc
Zinc is essential for the normal functioning of our immune system, and for the health of our hair and skin. Infections, hair loss and white marks on nails are among the signs of a deficiency.
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb, which helps your body to deal with stressful situations, support emotional resilience and relaxation.
Chamomile
For years Chamomile has been used as a natural remedy to treat poor sleep and is often regarded as a sleep inducer, thought to be due to the calming effects of apigenin, an antioxidant.
