What is proline? Discover its functions, what are its most important health benefits and in which foods rich in proline you can find it.
The amino acids are the chemical units (which could make a comparison as if they were building blocks ) that form proteins, so that the protein substances are built thanks to amino acids form organs, tendons, muscles …
Depending on whether amino acids can be synthesized by our body or not, they are called essential amino acids and non-essential amino acids. Thus, the former must be provided through the diet because our body is not capable of synthesizing them by itself, while the latter – non-essential amino acids – can synthesize or manufacture them.
The proline is a nonessential amino acid that our body can be synthesized from the glutamic acid (other nonessential amino, fundamental to our body).
What is proline?
As we briefly indicated in the previous section, proline (Pro) is a non-essential amino acid, which means that our body can synthesize it by itself.
For this, our body needs glutamic acid to be able to synthesize it correctly.
Proline functions
- Strengthens the joints and tendons.
- Helps in strengthening the muscles of the heart.
- Helps in the production of collagen.
- It improves skin texture.
- Reduces the risk of collagen loss.
- It helps in the healing of both tissues and mucous membranes.
- It helps in the immunity of our body by being related to the maintenance of some immunoglobulins.
Health benefits of proline
As we have learned through the previous section dedicated to the different functions of proline, we are faced with a non-essential amino acid that shares the functions of collagen synthesis, helping to reduce the risk of collagen loss and also helps in its production.
It is useful in strengthening the joints and tendons. Hence, this non-essential amino acid is used in the prevention of arthritis, by preserving the joints.
Where to find proline?
Here are the foods richest in proline:
- Foods of animal origin: meats.
- Plant-based foods: foods rich in vitamin C such as citrus and other fruits.
