Gelatin is a protein obtained from the skin and bones of animals such as cows and pigs. This protein is a derivative of collagen. Collagen is mainly found in the skin, bones, and muscles. Therefore, gelatin is obtained by extracting animal skin, bones, muscles, etc. Gelatin is usually added in powder form to make jellies, candies, and packaged fruit snacks.
This substance is also often used in nutritional supplements and medicines. Gelatin has many benefits because it is a unique combination of amino acids. One of them is improving skin and hair health.
Gelatin can also be processed into collagen hydrolysate containing amino acids. Its content and properties are the same as agar-agar. Gelatin and collagen hydrolysate are now available in powdered food supplements.
Gelatin itself is available in sheet form and is usually sold in cake shops. If you follow a vegan diet, it is not recommended to consume it because it contains animal ingredients.
Health Benefits of Gelatin
Here are some of the health benefits of gelatin:
Relieves Joint Pain
As previously mentioned, as we age, the amount of collagen production decreases. This has a negative impact on a person’s joints and cartilage. Consuming collagen regularly can relieve joint discomfort.
Building Muscle Mass
When you consume gelatin, your body breaks down the protein it contains into amino acids. These amino acids are used to repair and build muscle mass. Although the body can produce several types of amino acids, the body also needs amino acids obtained from food, such as gelatin.
Improves Sleep Quality
The last benefit of gelatin is improving sleep quality. This is due to the amino acid glycine contained in gelatin. If taken regularly, it helps your body fall asleep more easily. To get these benefits, you may want to consume 1-2 tablespoons of gelatin before bed.
Prevents Premature Aging
Consuming collagen supplements since your mid-20s is thought to help prevent signs of premature aging. Collagen not only has a positive impact on skin health, but it can also improve hair growth in people who experience hair loss.
Improves Brain Function
Regular consumption of glycine, an amino acid found in gelatin, improves a person’s memory and concentration. This is thought to improve brain function. If your brain is functioning properly, you can avoid psychological problems such as depression and anxiety disorders. In addition, a study in the journal Neural Plasticity showed that certain doses of gelatin can reduce symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) mental health problems.
Lose Weight
Gelatin is a low-calorie food. In fact, this protein can be used to lose weight. This food is not only low in calories, but it also helps suppress appetite and makes you feel full faster. This will help you avoid overeating and help you control your weight.
Controlling Blood Sugar
A study published in the Journal of Endocrinological Investigation looked at giving 5 grams of glycine daily for three months to 74 people with type 2 diabetes. The group that received glycine had significantly lower HbA1C levels and reduced inflammation after three months. HbA1C is a measure of a person’s average blood sugar levels over time. Therefore, lower values indicate better blood sugar control.
Improves Blood Flow
Glycine (glycine) is the most common amino acid found in gelatin. In one study, liver damage was reduced in animals given glycine. Another study in rabbits conducted by the Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology (2011) found that giving glycine can improve liver function and blood flow.
Side Effects of Gelatin for Health
Gelatin is a relatively safe ingredient to consume. Because the risks and side effects of consuming this compound, either in the form of food protein or supplements, are relatively low. However, this does not rule out the possibility that this compound can cause side effects with varying degrees of severity in some people. Gelatin can cause the following side effects: Unpleasant or uncomfortable taste in the mouth, Stomach upset or bloating, Burning sensation in the chest, and Excessive belching.