​Glycine for Endocrine Support

Glycine is an essential amino acid that the body requires for building proteins in the body. Some of its functions include helping to build collagen which is important for skin elasticity, health of our digestive tract, and building creatine which is used as energy by our muscles and brain.

Glycine also helps to regulate blood sugar levels, and helps the body make serotonin, a hormone and neurotransmitter that has significant effects on sleep and mood. 1 It’s because of all of these important functions that I feel glycine is a key nutrient when it comes to the endocrine system.
 
As a refresher, the endocrine system is a network of organs and glands found throughout the entire body. These organs and glands rely on hormones to send messages and to control and coordinate their functions.
 
Glycine is considered a non-essential nutrient, because our body can manufacture small amounts. However, in order to do so, we must have the appropriate building blocks. Therefore, I feel that it’s important that we ensure we are including sources of glycine through our diet. Where do we find glycine in the foods that we consume? Some of the best sources include:

• Gelatin powder
• Bone broth
• Poultry skin
• Seafood
• Bone-in meat (the connective tissue and bone is where the glycine is found)
• Dairy products

 
Not sure if you’re getting enough glycine? Be on the lookout for my upcoming Easy Gelatin Powder Gravy or search my recipes for my Bone Broth!