Osteoarthritis - could missing glycine be the answer?

Glycine and Joint Support

Glycine is a major component of collagen and may support joint structure and repair.

Collagen synthesis is severely diminished in osteoarthritis; thus, enhancing it may help the regeneration of cartilage. This requires large amounts of glycine, proline and lysine. Glycine is an essential amino acid, which must be present in the diet in large amounts to satisfy the demands for collagen synthesis. Other authors have shown that proline is conditionally essential. Degeneration of the cartilage in osteoarthritis mainly affects the collagen content in the matrix structure. The regeneration of the cartilage is the main target to solve the problem, and its main key could be the regeneration of collagen. Glycine, proline and lysine play a special role in collagen structure and their insufficient availability could be a cause to make collagen synthesis and regeneration difficult.

View supporting research on glycine and collagen

Learn more about glycine for sleep and recovery

Build Magnesium Quickly — The Bath & Foot Bath Method

One of the fastest ways to raise magnesium levels in the body is transdermally — through the skin — using a magnesium bath or foot bath. This bypasses the digestive system entirely, which means you avoid the bowel tolerance limitations of oral magnesium and can absorb meaningful amounts quickly.

This is particularly relevant for joint and muscle pain, where magnesium deficiency is common and contributes directly to inflammation, muscle tension, and poor connective tissue recovery.

Full Magnesium Bath

  • Add 1–2 cups of magnesium chloride flakes and/or Epsom salts / magnesium sulfate to a warm bath
  • Add 1/2 cup of MSM
  • Add a small handful of natural sea salt for trace minerals
  • Add 2 tablespoons sodium bicarbonate
  • Soak for 20–40 minutes
  • The warmer the water, the more the pores open and the greater the absorption
  • Best done in the evening — magnesium has a calming, sleep-supportive effect

Foot Bath (Easier & Just as Effective)

  • Add 1/4 cup of magnesium chloride flakes to a basin of warm water
  • Add 1/4 cup of Epsom salts
  • Add a small handful of natural sea salt for trace minerals
  • Add 2 tablespoons sodium bicarbonate
  • Add 1 teaspoon of citric acid after your feet are in the bath
  • Soak feet for 20–30 minutes
  • The soles of the feet are highly absorptive — this method is surprisingly effective and convenient. The citric acid activates the sodium bicarbonate to produce carbon dioxide bubbles on the skin, resulting in oxygen release from blood vessels. CO2 causes the pH of the body to shift to a more alkaline state.
  • Ideal for those who can’t manage a full bath or want a daily top-up

Why Magnesium Chloride vs Epsom Salts?

Both work transdermally. Magnesium chloride is generally considered more bioavailable and is better tolerated by sensitive skin. Epsom salts (magnesium sulfate) are widely available and effective — either is a good choice.

How Often?

For acute joint pain or inflammation, daily foot baths for 1–2 weeks can make a noticeable difference. For maintenance, 3–4 times per week is a practical target.

→ Read more: The Alkaline Body — Bicarbonate, CO2 & Why Your Bath Could Change Everything

Note: Transdermal magnesium is a complementary strategy, not a replacement for oral supplementation or medical care. If you are managing a serious joint condition, work with your healthcare practitioner.

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Research & References

Content provided for informational purposes. Not medical advice. Not intended to diagnose, treat or cure. Consult your health practitioner.

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