Gelatin is a substance made from animal collagen that gives foods such as jellies, marshmallows, and gummy candies their distinctive jelly-like texture. Because this ingredient is tasteless and colorless, it is commonly used as a thickener and stabilizer in supplements and foods (such as jellies and marshmallows). Gelatin is often found in small amounts in foods, but it may also be sold as a supplement.
Studies have shown that gelatin can help treat diseases such as diarrhea, brittle nails, aging skin, and osteoporosis. However, gelatin also comes with potential risks, so more research is needed into the benefits of gelatin, especially when ingested in large amounts.
Collagen is widely touted as a supplement for skin health, and research has found that collagen supplements may promote skin hydration and elasticity. Since gelatin is made from animal collagen, some people think it may also have benefits for skin health. However, these two are products of different animal origin, and there is little research on the benefits of gelatin at this time.
Researchers believe that gelatin is particularly useful for wound healing because of its high affinity with human skin. Additionally, it may help start the wound healing process when you have cuts, scrapes, or other injuries.
One rat study found that consuming gelatin from Japanese sturgeon boosted antioxidant properties and improved skin structure, but researchers do not believe the same is true for humans. yeah.
Overall, research is still very limited and lacks large-scale human clinical trials to fully explore gelatin’s potential skin benefits. That being said, it is best to seek advice and approval from your healthcare provider before trying gelatin supplements.
Gelatin also helps with bone health. However, overall research on gelatin is limited, and more research is needed to know the definitive effects of how gelatin helps bones.
One small study found that taking a vitamin C-rich gelatin supplement improved collagen synthesis in men who engaged in intermittent exercise. Collagen helps give structure and strength to bones, so collagen synthesis may improve bone health and prevent musculoskeletal injuries.
In this study, participants ingested either 5 grams or 15 grams of vitamin C-enriched gelatin an hour three times a day for three days before completing 6 minutes of jumping rope to start collagen synthesis. However, this study included only eight participants, and other research on this topic is limited.
Some studies have shown that a particular type of gelatin called tannic acid gelatin may be helpful in treating acute diarrhea and gastroenteritis (gastroenteritis) in children. In one study, children who received gelatin and oral rehydration solution had significantly fewer bowel movements, improved stool consistency, and reduced duration of illness compared to children who received oral rehydration solution alone. I found out it was shortened.
Although some studies have shown promising results in this regard, a recent meta-analysis of three studies on this topic found that gelatin had no beneficial effect on diarrhea duration and bowel frequency compared to placebo. It turns out that it has no effect. Therefore, the results are still mixed.
Scientists are also interested in whether gelatin can help foster a healthy gut microbiome. A study conducted in vitro (in a petri dish, not in a living body) in 2022 found that gelatin peptides reduced the release of cytokines (small proteins that contribute to inflammation in the intestines), especially in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). There was found. However, human studies are still working to find even more significant results.
Gelatin is made from animal collagen, so it is particularly rich in protein. One tablespoon (7 grams) of gelatin contains:
- calorie: twenty three
- fat: 0 grams (g)
- sodium: 14 milligrams (mg)
- carbohydrates: 0g
- fiber: 0g
- Added sugar: 0g
- protein: 6g
As you may have noticed, gelatin is a source of protein and that’s it. It contains some sodium and traces of micronutrients such as phosphorus, potassium, and iron, but this ingredient contains almost no fat or carbohydrates.
Although gelatin is generally safe to consume in food, it can be harmful if taken as a supplement in high doses. At least, there’s no research to suggest that it provides any unique health benefits.
Specifically, consuming more than 15g of gelatin daily may increase the risk of side effects such as sore throat, swollen gums, and canker sores. Also, researchers aren’t sure if gelatin supplements are safe for people who are breastfeeding, so they’re best taken in food.
For pregnant women, a type of donkey skin gelatin called Colla Cory Assini It has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years and may be safe for treating thalassemia (a genetic blood disorder). However, it’s always best to check with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplements.
In children, gelatin tannate may be helpful in treating gastroenteritis and acute diarrhea. Although it may be safe for up to 5 days, consult your pediatrician (a doctor who specializes in children’s health) before giving gelatin supplements to your child.
Additionally, gelatin is derived from animal collagen, so it is not suitable for people following a vegan diet. Some vegetarians may be reluctant to consume gelatin.
Gelatin is often found in the baking section of grocery stores. If you’re interested in adding gelatin to your food, here are some tips for safely handling the ingredient.
- Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place
- Use gelatin to make jellies, marshmallows, and jellies
- If you are vegan or vegetarian, use gelatin alternatives such as agar, pectin, or carrageenan.
- If you are taking gelatin supplements, first consult your healthcare provider and follow their instructions.
Gelatin is also found in skin and hair care products such as cleansers, shampoos, face creams, and primers. This ingredient adds thickness and moisture to such products. However, if you are vegan or vegetarian and want to avoid gelatin in these types of products, check the ingredient list and search for vegan products. A dermatologist (a doctor who specializes in skin, hair, and nail health) may also be able to give you recommendations on products to use.
Although gelatin is thought to have several benefits, there are still no high-quality human studies to support these benefits. Of the existing studies, most are very small or conducted in mice or in vitro, rather than in humans. That said, more research is needed before gelatin can be the main ingredient for specific health benefits.
Ingesting gelatin in food is generally safe and can help add a jelly-like texture to gummy candies, marshmallows, and jellies. However, if you decide to take gelatin supplements, it’s best to check with your provider before you start.
