Collagen and Sleep: How Glycine Supports Rest and Relaxation

Collagen is often celebrated for its beauty-boosting and joint-supporting benefits—but did you know it can also help improve your sleep?

One of collagen’s primary amino acids, glycine, plays a surprisingly powerful role in calming the nervous system, enhancing sleep quality, and promoting deeper rest. If you struggle with falling asleep, waking up refreshed, or managing nighttime anxiety, collagen might be the missing piece in your wellness routine.

Let’s break down the science behind collagen and sleep, and how to use it for better nightly rest.

🧬 What Is Glycine and Why Does It Matter?

Glycine is a non-essential amino acid—meaning your body can produce it on its own—but it’s also obtained through protein-rich foods and supplements like collagen peptides.

This amino acid contributes to:

• Muscle tissue repair
• Digestive health
• Immune support
• And most importantly for sleep: nervous system regulation

🧠 How Glycine Improves Sleep

Research shows that glycine may improve both sleep quality and sleep onset (how quickly you fall asleep). Here’s how:

1. Promotes Relaxation Without Drowsiness

Glycine works as an inhibitory neurotransmitter, calming the brain by reducing excitability in the central nervous system. This helps prepare the body for sleep naturally—without acting like a sedative.

2. Lowers Core Body Temperature

A slight drop in body temperature signals to the body that it’s time to rest. Glycine supports thermoregulation, making it easier to fall and stay asleep.

3. Improves Sleep Architecture

Studies have shown that taking glycine before bed may:

• Increase time spent in deep sleep
• Reduce sleep interruptions
• Help people feel more alert and refreshed the next morning

🥣 How Collagen Can Help

While you can take glycine as a standalone supplement, collagen peptides are a natural and convenient source of glycine—often providing 2–3 grams per serving. By taking collagen regularly, especially in the evening, you may support better sleep while also benefiting your skin, joints, and gut health.

✅ Pro tip: Mix collagen powder into a calming nighttime drink like chamomile tea, warm almond milk, or a bedtime smoothie.

⏰ Best Time to Take Collagen for Sleep

• 30–60 minutes before bed is ideal.
• Combine with magnesium or herbal teas (like lavender or lemon balm) for added relaxation.
• Make it part of a soothing nighttime ritual for consistency.

📝 Final Thoughts

Collagen isn’t just for your skin and joints—thanks to its glycine content, it can be a powerful ally for better sleep. Whether you’re dealing with stress, trouble falling asleep, or waking up groggy, a small evening dose of collagen might help support deeper rest and a calmer mind.

Consistent use, especially as part of a mindful bedtime routine, may deliver lasting improvements in your sleep quality and overall well-being.