Gelatin Be the New Superfood
When you fantasize about desserts, gelatin
doesn’t usually come to mind, but it may be time to reconsider how we
think about this food. From athletes to those who suffer from
osteoarthritis, more and more people are discovering the healing
properties of gelatin, such as relief for joint pains, accelerated
healing of injuries, improved quality of sleep, better digestion, and
more. So, can this dessert be truly this beneficial to our health?
Nutritionist Laura Schoenfeld has the answers:
What is Gelatin and Where Does it Come
From?
Gelatin is produced from collagen extracted from animal connective
tissues. During the manufacturing process, the collagen is dried and
then ground into a powder, and combined with flavorings, coloring, and
sugar to give it that final form.
There are two types of gelatin: Ordinary gelatin and hydrolyzed
collagen. Ordinary gelatin has complex proteins and becomes a gel when
mixed in with fluids, while hydrolyzed collagen dissolves into
individual amino acids and does not become a gel. Hydrolyzed collagen is
quite common in drinks and shakes.
Both types share health benefits, so
choosing which one to get is purely a personal choice.
Is There a Vegan Option?
In nature, gelatin is produced in animals, so “vegan” versions are often
produced from ingredients such as carrageenan, which don’t have the
same benefits, and can even cause intestinal problems if consumed in
large quantities.
How Much Gelatin Should I Eat?
If you’re eating the powdered form, two tablespoons a day will suffice.
If you take it in pill form, follow the instructions on the packaging or
consult your doctor.
What Makes Gelatin So Healthy?
Gelatin is rich in a variety of amino acids, including glycine - a
compound that is not very common in other foods. While these amino acids
are not considered essential nutrients (meaning that your body can
survive without them), they become essential in times of sickness or
stress. This is particularly important for older people, pregnant women,
people who suffer from joint or bone problems, people with an active
lifestyle and people who eat a lot of meat.
What are Gelatin’s Health Benefits?
1. Protection for people with a meat-rich diet: Some studies suggest
that glycine helps in counteracting the side effects of methionine – an
amino acid found in meat that can neutralize the beneficial effects of B
vitamins, and increase the risk of heart disease and certain kinds of
cancer.
2. Promotes intestinal health:
The amino
acids in gelatin help build the intestinal walls, an aid that is
particularly beneficial for those who damaged these walls through poor
diet choices, consumption of certain medications, and pre-existing
health conditions.
3. Beneficial for joint health:
Our bodies can repurpose the gelatin in
order to rebuild collagen, cartilage, and other connective tissues in
our joints. Furthermore, studies have found that athletes who regularly
add gelatin to their diet experience less joint pains compared to those
who don’t consume it.
4. Improves skin and nail health:
Our skin and nails need collagen to
stay healthy, and as stated before, gelatin can be used to rebuild
collagen, making skin more elastic and nails stronger.
5. Builds muscle mass:
Gelatin is an excellent source of protein, which
is what the muscles need in order to grow. It is particularly beneficial
for people who are beginning a new exercise regime, as well as those
who are trying to build muscle mass.
So Should I Eat More Jelly / Jell-O?
In one word – yes. But note that the boxed kind are often full of
artificial preservatives, colorings, and sweeteners, all of which are
not too good for you. Instead, you should opt for regular gelatin, and
add it to tea.