Proline levels are reduced in long-distance runners and other endurance athletes. Professional athletes may need to take the amino acid in supplements to avoid loss of muscle mass. Because the human body disassembles muscles for energy when the glucose supply is low.
It is a non-essential amino acid because the body can produce it from glutamic acid, so healthy people with a balanced diet are rarely deficient in this amino acid.
People recovering from traumatic injuries, especially severe burns, may require additional proline supplementation.
People who suffer from body pain due to insufficient cartilage or collagen deficiency can also take to relieve discomfort.