What two amino acids make up almost all of collagen proteins?

Collagen proteins are primarily composed of two specific amino acids: glycine and proline. Glycine is the most abundant amino acid in collagen, contributing to its unique triple helix structure, which is crucial for maintaining the strength and stability of connective tissues. Proline also plays a significant role in stabilizing the collagen structure by forming hydrogen bonds with other components of the collagen matrix.

The predominance of these two amino acids allows collagen to provide the strength and resilience found in skin, tendons, ligaments, and other connective tissues throughout the body. Understanding the composition of collagen is essential for professionals in sports nutrition and health, as it pertains to recovery, injury prevention, and overall athletic performance.