Glycine

Also known as: aminoacetic acid, 2-aminoacetic acid, G, Gly

Evidence under review. — Not yet rated

Simple amino acid with early-stage evidence for blood sugar, heart, and metabolic support.

What it does

Glycine is the simplest amino acid found naturally in the body and in protein-rich foods. Animal research suggests it may support heart muscle regeneration and reduce blood sugar and inflammation...
Evidence quality

Evidence base hasn't been formally rated yet. See research below.
Clinical dose

No established dose from provided studies
Found in

Thorne Magnesium Bisglycinate, NOW Zinc Glycinate 120 Softgels, Naked Nutrition Grass Fed Whey Protein Powder and 17 more

What the Science Says

Glycine is the simplest amino acid found naturally in the body and in protein-rich foods. Animal research suggests it may support heart muscle regeneration and reduce blood sugar and inflammation in diabetic models. Human evidence is limited — most studies use glycine as part of a combination therapy rather than testing it alone.

What It Doesn't Do

Not proven to improve cognition on its own. No human evidence it regenerates heart tissue. Won't replace diabetes medication. No proven muscle-building effect. Most human studies use it alongside other drugs or nutrients, so solo benefits are unclear.

Evidence-Based Benefits

May reduce fasting blood glucose and oxidative stress in diabetic animal models when combined with thymoquinone.

Weak Evidence

Effective at: No established human dose from provided studies

Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):

PMID 42156484

Promoted heart muscle cell regrowth and improved function after heart attack in mouse models.

Weak Evidence

Effective at: 700 mg/kg in mouse models; no human dose established

Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):

PMID 42094615

Linked to glycine N-methyltransferase activity relevant to fatty liver disease management.

Weak Evidence

Effective at: No established dose from provided studies

Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):

PMID 41828627

Absorption & Bioavailability

Unknown from provided studies — no pharmacokinetic data reported in the provided papers

Red Flags to Watch For

Most human studies use glycine as part of a multi-ingredient combination, making it impossible to isolate its individual effect
Animal model results (e.g., cardiac regeneration at 700 mg/kg) may not translate to humans
No established safe upper dose limit identified in the provided studies
Some studies reference glycine only as a tool ingredient (e.g., in MOF synthesis or dental procedures), not as a supplement

Supplement

Mostly Legit

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does Glycine do?

Simple amino acid with early-stage evidence for blood sugar, heart, and metabolic support.

What is the effective dose of Glycine?

No established dose from provided studies

Is Glycine safe?

Most human studies use glycine as part of a multi-ingredient combination, making it impossible to isolate its individual effect

What doesn't Glycine do?

Not proven to improve cognition on its own.

Research Sources

PubMed
NIH DSLD

This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-05-25