Health Benefit of gelatin and collagen
Posted by Wen Dan Jiang on
Health benefits of gelatin and collagen
The story of gelatin starts with a protein known as collagen. Gelatin and collagen have a strong relationship with each other, and the production of gelatin is dependent upon collagen. Collagen is an essential protein present in connective tissues, bones, and is one of the main building blocks of skin. The ratio of collagen protein is higher than any other protein present in the body.
When we boil animal skin, tendon, and bones, the collagen present in it is converted into gelatin. Gelatin is a colorless, flavorless, and brittle substance derived from the collagen present in animal bones. So, both gelatin and collagen come from the same source (bones, skin, tendons), both have the same amino acid profile, and both are very important in a health perspective. Both collagen and gelatin help
- Improve the elasticity of the skin
- Reduce redness and aging of the skin
- Balance gut hormones
- Play an essential role in maintaining joint health
- Supports leaking of the intestinal lining
- Building and maintenance of body tissues
- Fights allergies and helps in wound repair
Health benefits of gelatin and collagen
As collagen can't be eaten raw, you can add gelatin in your life. Gelatin can be added in soups, smoothies, jams, and pudding. Gelatin and collagen can also be obtained from bone broth. The following are some well-known health benefits of gelatin and collagen.
Skincare
Collagen helps to maintain skin elasticity and gives skin healthy and youthful appearance. Gelatin boosts collagen production and enhances skin appearance. Adding gelatin in the diet helps in moisture retention, smooth skin, reduced stretch marks, and cellulite appearance.
Gut health
Gelatin enhances the secretion of gastric acid and upholds the mucosal lining of the stomach. The amino acid, known as glutamic acid is present in gelatin, is converted to glutamine in the body. Glutamine is a critical amino acid in improving the integrity of the gut wall. It also prevents leaky gut. So, collagen intake is highly helpful if you are suffering from issues like leaky gut and any thyroid condition.
Improves brain function
Gelatin contains glycine, an amino acid associated with optimal brain functioning. It is known to enhance brain function and improves memory. It is also related to the improvement of mental health disorders such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Taking gelatin and collagen reduces the symptoms of schizophrenia and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
Improves liver function
The liver is a vital organ for detoxifying all the harmful toxic substances and removing them from the body. Gelatin contains an abundant amount of glycine, an amino acid that improves liver function and helps in detoxification of harmful chemicals.
Joint health and mobility.
Production of collagen in the body can decrease with age or due to other factors that can cause bone stiffness, causing pain and lack of mobility. The collagen present in gelatin eases joint pain, improves joint function, and decreases inflammation.
Bone strength
An amino acid lysine present in gelatin plays a significant role in bone strengthening. Calcium is essential for healthy bones, and glycine helps the body absorb calcium. Gelatin thus helps keep the bones healthy and inhibits bone loss. Some studies have shown collagen intake to be helpful in the treatment of osteoporosis.