Proline is one of the 20 amino acids that fall under the classification of non-essential amino acids. This means the body can synthesize it, as well as source it from food and supplements. Abundant because the bones, cartilage, skin, teeth, hair, tissues have traces of this amino acid and the body never ceases to produce it. The problem however is, production slows down as we start to age and when outside stresses build up.
More About Proline
Also referred to as Imino acid, proline is the utilized protein building block acid as it has various contribution in keeping the heart, skin, and muscles in tip-top shape. Many are probably familiar with proline as it is the main component in collagen – a favorite chemical of those who strictly follow the anti-aging regimen.
So, how does it function?
Proline emanates from another amino acid called glutamic acid. In order for the body to produce healthy cells, it needs a healthy dose of proline. What it does, it plays a role in generating and repairing tissues for the ligaments, muscles, joints, and skin. Collagen, a key protein in developing and renewing connective tissues are synthesized by Proline along with another amino acid called Lysine.
With Proline’s essential function in generating healthy cells, consuming food rich in proline or supplements would be ideal to maintain our body’s strength and beauty.
Collagen and Tissue Repair
Some of the benefits that one can get from proline are first, of course, the production of collagen. What is collagen? To visualize, collagen acts as a protective cover over essential tissues like muscles, bones, and ligaments to keep them healthy and strong. So proline, the precursor of collagen breaks down proteins to maintain healthy cells. Aside from this, damage to connective tissues, skin, and ligaments can be properly repaired if the body has a good amount of proline.
Collagen and Skin Elasticity
Another important function of proline is its ability to restore the vitality of the skin and repair. Elasticity and suppleness decrease once the human body age due to the slow down of collagen production. This is the reason why older people start to wrinkle and lose their skin’s firmness. Pollution, inadequate sleep, too much sun exposure without adequate protection can also wreak havoc on the skin, exacerbating its sorry state. Taking proline can reverse or at least restore the glow as it increases the production of collagen. Thus making one’s skin healthy again.
Collagen and Leaky Gut
Strengthening the digestive system is another reason why proline is good. Since proline increases the production of collagen, it can lead to reducing autoimmune diseases like leaky gut as collagen can restore the tissues lining the gastrointestinal tract. Collagen can also repair the ability of the gastrointestinal tract to absorb nutrients, sometimes lost by those who suffer from gut related ailments.
Collagen and the Heart
Protecting the heart is another benefit of proline as it lessens the risk of arteriosclerosis from occurring. This cardiovascular disease happens when the arteries narrow down due to the blockage caused by fat build up on the artery wall. Oxygen and blood pumped won’t be transmitted from the heart than to other vital organs of the body due to constricted arteries. Upping proline can help by removing the fat build up.
Collagen and Metabolism
Improving the body’s metabolism, while not fully studied yet, is another possible plus of proline. During intense physical activity, the body is able to cope with the stresses, enabling the body to utilize energy optimally. This boosts metabolism and helps enhance the muscles.
Side Effects or Risks of Taking Too Much Proline
Since it’s a natural non-essential amino there are no known harmful effects. However, it’s still highly recommended to check with the doctor if you need to take them in supplementation form and the dosage level. Likewise, if you have ailments or conceiving it’s also wise to check with people who know if proline won’t have an adverse effect or, weaken the medication that you are taking to heal your sickness.
For sources, again the body synthesizes proline; however, due to aging, free radicals that destroy the healthy cells and other external factors – increasing proline helps. Supplements are available, some in combination with other substances like Vitamin C.
Sourcing them from food won’t be too much of a problem too as many contain proline like dairy products, legumes, meat, avocado, vegetables like spinach, cabbage and broccoli, nuts, seafood, and seaweeds. Proline is abundant in meat.
There are however specific types of food that are considered super packed with proline, and these are liver and broth made from beef bone and chicken.