• Glycine sleep

  • Sources:

    Glycine, an amino acid, has been discussed by several experts as an aid for sleep improvement. Here are some insights from various sources:

    1. Temperature Regulation and Core Body Temperature:

    2. Serotonin and Melatonin Production:

      • Glycine can increase serotonin levels in the brain's prefrontal cortex, which indirectly supports the production of melatonin, our primary sleep hormone. By increasing serotonin, glycine may promote sleep onset and depth, contributing to better sleep quality 1 4.
    3. Sleep Efficiency:

      • Studies have shown that glycine can enhance overall sleep efficiency. This means that a higher percentage of the time spent in bed is actually spent sleeping, and it may also lengthen total sleep time and reduce nighttime awakenings 5.
    4. Dosage Recommendations:

      • A common recommendation is to take 3 to 5 grams of glycine before bedtime. This amount has been found effective in improving both the onset and quality of sleep 6 7.
    5. Additional Benefits:

      • Apart from sleep, glycine has potential benefits for joint health, collagen synthesis, and even lifespan extension. Its role in blood sugar stabilization has also been documented, suggesting a broader impact on overall health 8 9.

    If you're considering adding glycine to your regimen, it is advised to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the proper dosage and ensure it fits within your health plan.

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  • How does glycine affect sleep?

  • Sources:

    Glycine, an amino acid, affects sleep through several mechanisms as detailed by experts:

    1. Core Body Temperature Reduction:

      • Glycine helps lower core body temperature, which is essential for deep sleep and REM sleep. This reduction occurs through vasodilation, where blood flow to extremities increases, enhancing heat dissipation. This property is particularly beneficial for people who are hot sleepers, as it helps them achieve a more restful sleep 1 2.
    2. Serotonin and Melatonin Production:

    3. Sleep Efficiency and Refreshment:

      • Glycine can improve sleep efficiency, meaning individuals spend a higher proportion of time in bed actually sleeping. It also helps people feel more rested and refreshed even when they do not get a full night’s sleep, which is helpful for those with disrupted sleep patterns, such as busy parents 4 5.
    4. Other Benefits:

      • Glycine also acts as a calming agent by binding to receptors in the brain similar to those for GABA, a neurotransmitter that induces relaxation. This mechanism helps calm the brain, making it easier to fall asleep and enhance overall sleep quality 6 3.

    These mechanisms make glycine a potent supplement for enhancing sleep, particularly due to its multifaceted approach in regulating core body temperature, boosting serotonin and melatonin levels, and improving overall sleep efficiency.

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