Glycine is a non-essential amino acid which is used in the
creation of muscle tissue and the conversion of glucose into energy. It also
aids in the functioning of the digestive system and helps in maintaining the
health of the central nervous system. Recent studies have shown that glycine,
with the help of antioxidants, helps to protect the body from cancer.
Here’s a look at some
of the many health benefits of glycine:
All amino acids have a vital role to play in the functioning
of the central nervous system. Glycine functions as an inhibitory
neurotransmitter and hence works well in treating conditions such as epilepsy,
hyperactivity and bipolar depression.
In a study on the use of glycine for anxiety, injections
containing glycine were administered to the gray matter of the brain in animal
subjects. The results showed reduced anxiety levels. In another study, adults
who received glycine doses daily showed an improvement in symptoms of obsessive
compulsive disorder, an anxiety-related disorder.
Some studies have shown that amino acids like glycine may
help to reduce the occurrence of asthma attacks.
Imbalances of glycine and another amino acid
neurotransmitter, glutamate, may be a trigger for autism, according to some
researchers.
Glycine supplements may help to increase attention and
improve focus in children and adults who suffer from ADHD and other
hyperactivity problems. Glycine enhances memory and mood and hence may be an
effective treatment for such behavioral issues.
Glycine was found to restrict the growth of tumors in rats
by blocking the formation of new blood vessels that may feed the tumors.
Due to its neuro-inhibitory effect, glycine calms the brain
and is thus helpful in treating depression and anxiety. Glycine also helps in
supplying glucose to the body and thus helps to alleviate fatigue and
listlessness that often accompanies depressive disorders.
Glycine may help in reducing swelling of the prostate gland.
Studies on glycine for prostatitis have shown that when taken in combination
with alanine and glutamic acid, glycine helps in treating swollen prostate
tissue.
Some health experts recommend glycine for psychosis. High
doses of the amino acid help to alleviate psychosis and other symptoms of
schizophrenia. Recent studies have shown that symptoms such as disinterest and
avoidance of activities in people, reduced when the levels of glycine increased
in the body.
Intake of glycine supplements helps to bring about
considerable improvement in back pain. One of the reasons of back pain could be
inadequate intake of glycine through the diet. Glycine also serves as an
inhibitory neurotransmitter and thus induces a feeling of calmness. Glycine
also promotes collage growth and release of the growth hormone, both of which
aid in wound healing.
Amino acid supplementation is known to help in bodybuilding
since it aids in muscle growth. The best time to take amino acids is soon after
training when the muscles receive nutrients easily. Blood flow to the muscles
also improves.
Adequate doses of glycine help to regulate the levels of
blood sugar in the body thus ensuring healthy metabolism.
Stomach Issues:
Glycine is composed of amino and hydroxyl ions which have an antacid effect and
help to relieve an upset stomach. The liver plays a key role in detoxification
of the body through various chemical reactions. During this process of liver
detox, glycine and certain other substances bind to toxins and aid in their
removal from the body.
Sleep Disorders:
Glycine is known to have a calming effect on the mind and plays an important
role in the proper functioning of the nervous system. There are many studies
that highlight the effectiveness of glycine for insomnia. Three grams of
glycine taken before bedtime may help to promote better sleep. It can also
improve the quality of sleep and reduce sleepiness during the day.
Skin Problems:
Since glycine helps in the growth of collagen, it may also help to maintain
skin health and aid in relieving skin conditions such as eczema.