Hi everyone, here’s an interesting study about L-serine which indicates it may be good for sleep.
Here’s the link: Effects of L-serine ingestion on human sleep - PMC.
Two randomized double-blind crossover studies examined L-serine’s impact on sleep. In Study 1, participants dissatisfied with their sleep took L-serine or a placebo 30 minutes before bed. Results showed significant improvements in sleep initiation and maintenance during L-serine intake (p = 0.02 and p = 0.008). In Study 2, participants reported better sleep quality and satisfaction with L-serine (p = 0.04 and p = 0.03), and actigraphy indicated a tendency to fewer nighttime awakenings (p = 0.08), however only 7 subjects data was analysed for this study. These results suggest L-serine before bed may enhance subjective sleep quality. There was also no hangover effect from L-serine ingestion.
What actually is L-serine you may be wondering… It’s a precursor to neurotransmitters like D-serine and glycine, supporting cognitive function and memory. L-serine may also offer neuroprotective effects, reducing excitotoxicity and aiding neurodegenerative disease management. Additionally, it’s involved in serotonin production, which helps regulate mood and anxiety. Its role in protein synthesis supports cellular health, making it a versatile supplement for those looking to optimize mental and physical well-being.
This is the first study (of several) on L-serine and sleep quality and while this is not a supplement I usually recommend it as a supplement for sleep it does certainly provide an interesting use for L-serine. The benefits of L-serine also seemed to last even 1 month after administration (however take this with a grain of salt as the researchers didn’t actually publish these findings.
What supplements have you found most beneficial for your sleep??