Simplest amino acid with wide-ranging benefits for sleep, collagen synthesis, and cognitive function. Excellent safety profile even at high doses.
How it works
Acts as an inhibitory neurotransmitter promoting relaxation. Essential building block for collagen (33% of collagen is glycine). Supports glutathione synthesis and bile acid conjugation.
Evidence-based uses
Lowers core body temperature and acts on NMDA receptors to promote sleep. Very safe even at high doses. May improve sleep quality without next-day grogginess.
Clinical Evidence
Glycine 3g before bed improved subjective sleep quality, reduced sleep latency, and decreased daytime sleepiness. Mechanism involves lowering core body temperature via peripheral vasodilation.
Subjects taking 3g glycine before bed reported significantly improved sleep satisfaction, reduced daytime drowsiness, and improved cognitive function next day.
Essential building block of collagen (every third amino acid). Supplementing supports endogenous collagen synthesis.
Clinical Evidence
Glycine as a collagen precursor (every 3rd amino acid in collagen) supports wound healing and skin repair when supplemented alongside vitamin C.
Compare prices
4 products compared across Australian retailers. Sorted by price per serve.
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| Product | Price | /serve | |
|---|---|---|---|
Best BulkSupplements BulkSupplements Glycine Powder BulkSupplements | $18.90 | $0.06 | |
Thorne Thorne Glycine Thorne | $28.00 | $0.11 | |
Life Extension Life Extension Glycine 1000mg Life Extension | $12.00 | $0.12 | |
NOW Foods NOW Glycine 1000mg iHerb | $12.90 | $0.13 |
Prices in AUD. Some links are affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
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Also consider
Mineral
Essential mineral involved in 300+ enzymatic reactions including sleep regulation and stress response.
Hormone
Natural sleep hormone that regulates circadian rhythm.
Amino Acid
Amino acid found in tea that promotes relaxation without drowsiness.
Herb
Traditional herbal remedy used for centuries to promote sleep.
Evidence Lab
Magnesium glycinate, L-theanine, ashwagandha, glycine and apigenin — ranked by clinical evidence. Melatonin is prescription-only in AU, so these are the best OTC options.
Read article 🔬An honest, evidence-based look at whether magnesium, L-theanine, valerian, glycine, and melatonin actually improve sleep — and what Australian sleep researchers think.
Read articlePrice drops, new products, and research updates for glycine supplements. One email per week, unsubscribe anytime.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement. Evidence ratings are based on peer-reviewed clinical research. Individual results may vary.