Glycine
What glycine is, where it comes from, how much supplements contain and why the powder tastes sweet.
This substance has no health claim authorised in the European Union. So we describe what it is and how it is taken, but do not say what it does in the body.
What it is
Glycine is the structurally simplest amino acid. The body makes it itself, and food supplies it with any protein; collagen and gelatine are especially rich in it. The name comes from the Greek glykys, sweet: pure glycine tastes sweetish.
No claims about what glycine does are authorised in the European Union, so we do not write about sleep or the nervous system; we describe the substance and the products.
How to read the label
Glycine is sold as powder (servings of 3 g and more) and as 500–1000 mg capsules. Glycine also appears in the names of mineral forms: magnesium, zinc or iron bisglycinate is the mineral bound to glycine. In such products glycine is part of the compound, not a separate dose.
How it is taken
The powder is dissolved in water or used in drinks in place of some sugar; capsules are taken as the pack directs. Pregnant or breastfeeding women and people taking clozapine or other psychiatric medicines should ask a doctor first.
Frequently asked questions
Why is glycine sweet?
It is a property of the molecule itself; the amino acid's very name comes from the Greek word for sweet.
Is magnesium bisglycinate glycine?
It is magnesium bound to glycine. The magnesium amount is stated separately; the glycine is part of the compound.
Powder or capsules?
Powder is better value at doses of several grams; capsules are handier for small doses.
Other amino acids in the shop
