Glycine vs Oleamide: The Trigger vs The Pressure
Glycine is a simple amino acid found in collagen. Oleamide is a fatty acid amide found in your cerebrospinal fluid.
Glycine works by thermoregulation (cooling you down). Oleamide works by homeostatic drive (making you feel sleep deprived).
| Feature | Glycine | Oleamide |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Vasodilation / NMDA Modulation | CB1 Cannabinoid / Serotonin |
| Feel | Subtle / Refreshing | Heavy / "Stoned" |
| Half-Life | Short | Long (Can cause grogginess) |
| Safety | Very High (Food) | Moderate (Research Chemical) |
Mechanisms: Temperature vs Cannabinoids
Glycine: The Cool Down
Glycine acts on NMDA receptors in the suprachiasmatic nucleus. Its main trick is dilating blood vessels in your hands and feet. This dumps core body heat. A cooler body can enter deep sleep faster.
Oleamide: The Sleep Drive
Oleamide accumulates naturally in your brain when you stay awake too long. It interacts with the Endocannabinoid system (CB1). Taking it supplements mimics the feeling of being exhausted and ready to crash.
What it means
Glycine sets the environment for sleep. Oleamide forces the brain into it.
Which One Matches Your Goal?
For Daily Maintenance
Winner: Glycine.
Glycine is safe, cheap, and healthy to take every single night. It improves sleep architecture (more REM/Deep) without side effects.
For Acute Insomnia
Winner: Oleamide.
If you frankly cannot sleep, Oleamide is much stronger. It feels like a mild sedative. Be careful, as it often leaves people feeling groggy the next morning.
The Verdict
Choose Glycine if: You want a verified, safe supplement to improve sleep quality over time.
Choose Oleamide if: You need a heavy hitter to knock you out and don't mind feeling a bit slow the next day.