Proline: what it is, what it is for and where to find it

Proline is an amino acid that participates in the formation of collagen, a protein that is important for maintaining the elasticity and firmness of the skin, as well as being essential for the formation of tendons, muscles and cartilage.

Although it is produced by the body through glutamic acid, proline can also be obtained through eating foods such as meat, fish, cheese, beans, oats, nuts, cashews and Brazil nuts, for example.

Furthermore, proline is also used as a flavoring in processed foods and can be found in the form of supplements, in the form of capsules, in pharmacies and health food stores.

What is it for

Proline is indicated for the following situations:

• Maintain skin health;
• Strengthen joints and tendons;
• Maintain heart health;
• Promote wound healing;
• Strengthen the immune system.

Furthermore, proline is also used by industry in the production of some medicines; as a food flavoring; in moisturizing creams and conditioners; and in the form of a compound to promote the growth of fruits and vegetables.

Foods rich in proline

The following table shows the amount of proline for every 100g of each food:

To obtain all the benefits of proline, it is essential to maintain a healthy diet and practice physical activity regularly.

Recommended quantity

As it is not an essential amino acid for the body, there is no recommendation on the amount of proline that should be consumed per day.

However, maintaining a varied and healthy diet, with dairy products, nuts, legumes and cereals, is enough to obtain proline naturally.

If you want to know how to include proline in a healthy diet, make an appointment with the endocrinologist closest to you:

When to use supplements

Proline supplements are generally indicated to improve skin health, promote wound healing, and prevent joint and ligament injuries.

Proline supplements are found in capsules, where recommendations vary between 100 mg and 500 mg per day, and should be taken with 1 glass of water between meals.

However, the recommended dose of proline varies depending on the objective being treated and, therefore, this supplement should only be used under the guidance of a doctor or nutritionist.

Possible side effects

When used in moderate amounts, proline supplement is safe. However, there are still no studies that have evaluated the possible side effects of using large amounts of proline supplements.

Who cannot use

Proline supplementation is not recommended for children, nor is it recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, and for people with hyperprolinemia, a genetic condition that causes increased levels of proline in the blood and the elimination of proline in the urine. hydroxyproline and glycine.

Furthermore, people who use medication or have any illness should always consult a doctor before taking proline supplements.