Gelatin – sources, health benefits, nutrients, uses and constituents

12/02/2017 / By Michelle Simmons

Gelatin is a clear, tasteless protein that is derived from collagen. It is made by boiling animal bones, cartilage, and skin to extract the collagen, a fibrous protein. According to an entry by AmazingHealth.com, gelatin can be used as a gelling agent, thickener, film former, adhesive agent, stabilizer, or whipping agent. Moreover, it can be used in hard capsules, soft gels, plasma expanders, tablet binders and coatings, vaccine stabilizers, and different consumer food applications.

List of known nutrients

Calcium
Copper
Folate
Glycine
Glutamic acid
Hydroxyproline
Iron
Magnesium
Phosphorus
Potassium
Proline
Selenium
Valine

Medicinal uses for gelatin

There are a lot of medicinal uses for gelatin. Gelatin is made from collagen which makes the skin look healthy and youthful. As people get older, they naturally lose collagen. Gelatin can be used as a natural way to increase moisture and collagen density of the skin. Moreover, it may also increase the thickness of the hair. Another benefit of gelatin is that it provides protein. Furthermore, gelatin may help in digestion as it may promote the production of gastric juices. The glycine it contains may enhance a healthy mucousal lining in the stomach. Gelatin may also be used to reduce joint pain linked with inflammation. The lysine that gelatin contains may also help strengthen the bones and help the body absorb calcium. Gelatin has also been found to improve the quality of sleep in some people because of its abundance of glycine. Lastly, gelatin may help in losing weight because of its protein and low-calorie content.

Body systems supported by gelatin

There are several body systems that gelatin supports. One of these is the integumentary system as it improves the growth of the skin, hair, and nail. It also supports the skeletal system as it can reduce inflammation of the joints and strengthen the bones. Gelatin is also beneficial to the digestive system because it helps improve digestion and enhance metabolism. In addition, it is beneficial to the immune system as it boosts the body’s immunity and helps fight against infections.

Ways to use gelatin

According to an entry by The Spruce, gelatin is used to thicken puddings, yogurt, gummy candies, fruit gelatin desserts, ice cream, and marshmallows. It must be dissolved first in warm water before adding to a recipe. After that, the gelatin can be mixed into any liquid or semi-solid mixtures.