Gelatin is a colourless, translucent, and flavourless protein product that is commonly derived from collagen, which is taken from animal body parts. Gelatin may promote skin, joint, hair, nail, and gut health. This is because it provides essential amino acids, the building blocks of proteins, which can provide great health benefits.
But what is gelatin powder? When dried and smashed into individual grains, gelatin turns into a powdered form. It is because of this powdery consistency that it disburses easily throughout the mixture it gets added to.
Gelatin Benefits
Listed below are the reasons that prove gelatin is good for health:
1. Healthy Body Tissues
Proteins are macronutrients that are essential for building and maintaining body tissues, proper functioning of various organs, and energy. Another added benefit of Gelatin as a protein is that it does not contain fat (unlike meat).
2. Hydrated Skin
As already discussed, Gelatin is a protein product derived from collagen. Collagen is a vital element in healthy skin. The problem, however, is as people age, their natural collagen levels drop which can lead to not only skin losing elasticity but also the development of wrinkles. The good news is that the protein and amino acids in gelatin, when consumed, can help the body build more collagen.
3. Digestive Health
Gelatin contains glutamic acid which could help with digestion. By stimulating the production of gastric juices, it may also help digestion. Gelatin might as well help the movement of food through the digestive system, as it binds to water.
4. Easing Joint Pain
Inflammation is part of the body’s defense mechanism and plays a role in the healing process but too much inflammation can cause joint pain. Lysine, an amino acid present in gelatin, helps strengthen the bones. It also helps keep the bones strong and prevents bone loss by helping the body to absorb calcium. Gelatin is even consumed by some people to reduce their risk of osteoporosis, which causes bones to become brittle.
5. Blood Sugar Management
Glycine is an amino acid present in gelatin. According to a study, glycine may help people with type 2 diabetes to manage their condition. People who take glycine as a treatment, experience not only a drop in blood sugar levels but also reduced inflammation.
Side Effects of Gelatin
According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Gelatin from cows is permissible as long as manufacturers process it according to safety guidelines. The oral intake is likely safe as per the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The NIH adds that it is probably safe to take up to 10 g as supplements for up to 6 months.
It is not yet known how safe it is to consume high doses of supplements of this protein product. The safety of This supplements in children and women who are pregnant or breastfeeding is also not known yet. However, here are four possible short-term side-effects of gelatin:
- Belching
- Bloating
- Upset Stomach
- Allergic Reaction
Conclusion
There are a few minor side effects that can get triggered by the consumption of gelatin. However, as we’ve seen throughout this article, the benefits far outweigh the potential minor side effects, which apparently makes it pretty safe to
