Glycine is a conditionally essential amino acid, meaning in most cases the body can synthesise and create it itself, however under certain physiological conditions it may be needed in the diet. Glycine is an important factor in collagen production, which is the most abundant protein in the body. Collagen provides muscles, skin, cartilage, blood, bones and ligaments with strength, and benefits skin, joint and bone health.
Glycine has also been shown to increase sleep quality and aid in a better nights sleep by having a calming effect on the brain. There has been research on the supplementation of glycine before bed to aid sleep, this study explores the effects of just 3g of glycine per day on sleep quality.
Glycine is one of the many amino acids present in protein-rich sources and can be found in foods such as red meat, bone broth, fish and legumes, as well as in Skin Friend PM and Skin Friend AM.
Alongside being a factor in collagen production and helping with sleep quality, glycine is one of the three amino acids that are responsible for creating glutathione in the body - which is a powerful antioxidant, helping to protect your cells against oxidative stress, which is caused by free radicals and thought to underline many states of disease. It is also an important factor of a compound called creatine, which is known for being important for providing your muscles with energy to carry out short bursts of activity, such as sprinting.
Products
At Eczema Life, we recommend nutritionist Karen Fischer's low food chemical program (The Eczema Detox) along with additive-free supplements for skin health and wellbeing. Click on the images to view more details:
