Not everyone needs to have the knowledge of today’s biochemist. What’s important to know is that there have been extraordinary advances in what scientists now understand about the way the human body works. Their discoveries show it’s the little things that matter.
Fifty years ago, the focus was at the level of the cell, understanding its properties and functions. In labs, experiments involved poking and prodding cells to see how they behaved in response.
Today, advances in technology make it possible to study the building blocks of cells and how they function. Scientists, and now computers, are sequencing DNA at lightening pace. They can study proteins, for example, one at a time, manipulating genetic codes in search of breakthroughs in disease treatments.
Among the little things that matter are myriads of chemical and electrical interactions involving lipids, proteins, nucleic acids and carbohydrates. One marvels at this microscopic complexity!
One remarkable and very small worker is proline, an amino acid that functions as a building block for proteins. Think of it as an odd piece of Lego requiring combinations with other Lego to make a strong and purposeful structure. While it's not as well-known as some other amino acids, proline is indispensable for the structure and function of collagen, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and skin.
Supplementing with L-proline can be beneficial for individuals with
joint problems, as it promotes the repair and regeneration of damaged
cartilage and connective tissues. It also aids in reducing joint pain
and improving mobility.
What does the “L” in front of proline mean when you see it as an
ingredient in a supplement? The letter L stands for “levorotatory,”
which is a chemistry term indicating the amino acid is in its free form,
or not already bonded with a protein molecule. It’s the Lego block on
its own, before it sticks together with other building blocks.
L-proline promotes good health because it aids in the formation of
new collagen and tissue. This means it has an important role in helping
heal wounds such as those occurring from surgery, injury, or skin
conditions like pressure ulcers.
Collagen formation is essential in the maintenance and renewal of
cells in other important parts of the body too. Notably, L-proline helps
prevent atherosclerosis, the buildup of arterial plaque. This buildup
can restrict blood flow, increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes,
and contribute to high blood pressure.
How does it do it? L-proline works by reducing the capacity for fats
to settle down in arterial walls, thereby preventing the progression of
atherosclerosis. It also promotes the relaxation of blood vessels, which
can help lower blood pressure.
Combining L-proline with other heart-healthy nutrients, like vitamin C
and lysine, can further enhance its cardiovascular benefits. The
combination is a powerful set of antioxidants. Together, they neutralize
harmful free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and protecting cells
from damage.
As we age, collagen production naturally declines, leading to visible
signs of aging, such as sagging skin and wrinkles. Choosing a
supplement that contains L-proline is part of maintaining skin and
arteria elasticity in the context of naturally deteriorating capacity to
self-manufacture our own Lego blocks, as we do so easily as younger
people. There’s no proven way to stop aging, but ensuring cells are
unnecessarily calling it quits is worth every effort.
It's fascinating to stop and think about existential questions.
Everything we are, including our consciousness, is the result of
chemical and electrical interactions most of us take for granted. But
don’t pause for long. Get active and fuel your body well, so that more
healthy building is underway than neglectful destruction.
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W. Gifford-Jones, MD and Diana Gifford-Jones——
Bio and Archives
W. Gifford-Jones, MD is the pen name of Dr. Ken Walker, graduate of Harvard Medical School. Diana Gifford-Jones is his daughter, a graduate of Harvard Kennedy School. Their latest book, “No Nonsense Health” is available at: Docgiff.com
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