Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

L-glycine is a non-essential amino acid that plays several roles in the human body, including involvement in muscle tissue and metabolism. Scientific evidence for its use specifically to support the muscles body system exists, but is modest and not as robust as for other amino acids like leucine or creatine.

Glycine is a major component of collagen, which is important for connective tissue health, including tendons and ligaments that support muscles. Some studies suggest that glycine supplementation may help reduce muscle wasting in certain catabolic conditions, such as during aging or illness, primarily through its anti-inflammatory and cytoprotective effects (Wang et al., 2015). Animal research has also shown that glycine can help decrease muscle loss under stress conditions. However, direct evidence for glycine enhancing muscle growth, strength, or recovery in healthy adults is limited.

Glycine may also support muscle function indirectly by improving sleep quality, which is important for muscle recovery, and by acting as a precursor for creatine synthesis, which is more directly tied to muscle energy metabolism. Human clinical data explicitly demonstrating a significant ergogenic or anabolic effect from glycine supplementation in healthy, exercising individuals are lacking.

In summary, while L-glycine has some scientific basis for supporting muscle health, especially in specific clinical or stress conditions, the evidence for its use as a muscle support supplement in healthy populations is limited.

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