Glycine is the smallest and simplest amino acid. It acts in the nervous system as an inhibitory, relaxing messenger.
In the alcoholic, the alcohol tickles the glycine action to maximum levels and therefore initially relaxes. At some point, the body counteracts this – and so this nerve messenger system takes a severe beating.
In the case of tetanus, also known as lockjaw, the sick suffer from terrible cramps, in the worst case to the point of death. The reason: bacterial toxins prevent the body from releasing GABA and glycine. The muscles of those affected lack the relaxation commands. They convulse so strongly that sometimes even bones break in the process.
The pharmaceutical industry is also on the trail of this amino acid. In 2013, the giant Merck, Sharp & Dome received a patent for a substance that provides more glycine on the nerve. The manufacturer has already tested its substance on rodents. The patent specification states that the substance should very significantly reduce cravings for alcohol.
Glycine not only relaxes. Together with vitamin B3 (i.e. niacin), it also promotes the production of the so-called growth hormone. This is something like the universal repair substance of the body. Glycine is also a component of glutathione. This is one of the strongest cell protection substances of all and also a kind of body fire department when it comes to healing. Thus, glycine also makes a super contribution so that the body can recover from alcohol.
More information: Book “Bye bye, booze!“
