Hydroxyproline is a non-essential amino acid, which means it does not need to be ingested, as your body has the ability to make it on its own. In this case, your body creates hydroxyproline by using vitamin C in the body to modify the amino acid proline. Hydroxyproline, according to the Protein Data Bank, is essential for collagen stability, and without it the body lacks the ability to repair wear and tear on the skin and other areas. Unfortunately, your body does not make vitamin C, so it must be included in your diet in order to ensure there is enough to create hydroxyproline. The Institute of Medicine's Food and Nutrition Board recommends a daily allowance of 90 mg of vitamin C a day for adult men and 75 mg for adult women.
Step 1
Eat a diet rich in vitamin C. Foods high in vitamin C include cantaloupe, citrus fruits and juices, pineapple, watermelon, berries, broccoli, green and red peppers, spinach, potatoes and tomatoes.
Step 2
Talk with your physician about the possible need for vitamin C supplements. If you are not getting enough vitamin C in your diet, he may advise adding a supplement to your daily routine.
Step 3
Stop smoking. Smoking reduces your levels of vitamin C and requires an increase in the necessary daily amount required. This can cause a reduction in your vitamin C levels and in turn reduce your body's production of hydroxyproline. According to the National Institutes of Health, smokers should add 35 mg to their daily recommended amount.
Step 4
Talk to your physician about adding a hydroxyproline supplement. According to the United States National Library of Medicine, there are a few supplemental products that contain active hydroxyproline. However, a recommended daily value of hydroxyproline has not been determined, so talking with your physician before beginning any direct supplement is advised.
Tips and Warnings
- According to the National Institutes of Health, most Americans receive an adequate amount of vitamin C in their diet. People at higher risk for a vitamin C deficiency include smokers, infants fed cow's milk, people who eat a limited diet and people with medical conditions such as severe malabsorption, cancer and kidney disease.
- Do not take high doses of vitamin C in the hopes of increasing hydroxyproline. Your body is unable to store vitamin C and the excess will be excreted through your urine. Your body will use the amount of vitamin C needed to make the necessary amount of hydroxyproline. With a healthy, balanced diet, you should have adequate levels of both hydroxyproline and vitamin C.
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