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Glycine

What does it do? Glycine is a nonessential amino acid used by the body to build proteins. It is present in considerable amounts in prostate fluid. Glycine may play a role in maintaining the health of the prostate, since a study of 45 men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) found that 780 mg of glycine per day for two weeks and then 390 mg for the next two and a half months, taken in combination with equal amounts of the amino acids, alanine and glutamic acid, reduced symptoms of the condition.1 This effect has been reported by others.2 Glycine also enhances the activity of neurotransmitters (chemical messengers) in the brain that are involved in memory and cognition.3

Where is it found? Glycine is found in many foods high in protein, such as fish, meat, beans, and dairy.

Glycine has been used in connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual health concern for complete information):

Rating Health Concerns
3Stars Schizophrenia
2Stars Benign prostatic hyperplasia
3Stars Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
2Stars Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
1Star An herb is primarily supported by traditional use, or the herb or supplement has little scientific support and/or minimal health benefit.

Who is likely to be deficient? Few people are glycine deficient, in part because the body makes its own supply of the nonessential amino acids.

How much is usually taken? Healthy people do not need to supplement with glycine. A physician should be consulted before supplemental glycine is used for the support of serious health conditions.

Are there any side effects or interactions? No clear toxicity has emerged from glycine studies. However, people with kidney or liver disease should not consume high intakes of amino acids without consulting a healthcare professional.

Are there any drug interactions? Certain medications may interact with glycine. Refer to the drug interactions safety check for a list of those medications.

References:

1. Damrau F. Benign prostatic hypertrophy: Amino acid therapy for symptomatic relief. J Am Geriatr Soc 1962;10:426–30.

2. Feinblatt HM, Gant JC. Palliative treatment of benign prostatic hypertrophy. Value of glycine-alanine-glutamic acid combination. J Maine Med Assoc 1958;49:99–101, 124.

3. File SE, Fluck E, Fernandes C. Beneficial effects of glycine (Bioglycin) on memory and attention in young and middle-aged adults. J Clin Psychopharmacol 1999;19:506–12.