Glycine

What is it?

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 chemical messengers (neurotransmitters) 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):

Science Ratings	Health Concerns
	Schizophrenia
	Benign prostatic hyperplasia
Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit. Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit. For a herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, 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 medicines may interact with glycine. Refer to drug interactions for a list of those medicines.

References
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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.

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The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or chemist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires March 2007.

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