Collagen is the most important and abundant protein in your body, according to Healthline, and gelatin is a natural protein that is derived from raw collagen—both are equal in protein. The only difference is that gelatin is a cooked form of collagen, and it is easier to digest. However, both are equally beneficial to your body. In this article, we will be covering what you need to know about collagen and gelatin.
What Is Collagen?
According to Swanson Vitamins, collagen is the primary protein in your body that helps your connective tissue, skin, and bones. Collagen essentially makes up about 25-35% of all the protein in our bodies, and it is found in many parts, such as our skin, muscles, and tendons. Collagen is also found in many foods, such as fish, chicken, egg whites, citrus fruits, and garlic. In addition to getting collagen from food sources, there are also many supplements that you can take in order to get the essential nutrients you need daily.
What Are The Best Collagen Supplements?
Due to the lack of protein in our bodies as we age, it is recommended by NakedNutrition that 2.5 to 15 grams per day is a safe amount to consume daily. The average person can benefit from taking collagen supplements. There are many collagen supplements on the market today. Here is a list of the top rated collagen supplements according to Amazon:
Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides Powder is a powder that can be put in any drink, such as tea, coffee, smoothies, and any hot or cold liquids.
LiveWell Labs Nutrition Collagen Peptides Powder is a powder that is said to help strengthen joints, hair, skin, and nails, as well as improve gut and immune function, and benefit the body's overall cellular structure.
Vital Vitamins Multi Collagen Pills are capsules that you take by mouth and are described to be the best alternative to collagen powder.
NeoCell Super Collagen With Vitamin C is a highly rated collagen supplement that also has vitamin C, which is an essential vitamin that helps aid the immune system.
What Is Gelatin?
According to Healthline, gelatin is a high-protein product derived from collagen. It is made by cooking collagen. It is often used in sources such as jello and foods with jelly-like textures. It can also be found in the preparation of foods, cosmetics, and other medicines. It is used in medicine for making hard and soft capsules. In cosmetics, gelatin is used as a thickening agent.
What Are Some Healthy Sources of Gelatin?
Gelatin is present in many different food sources. A lot of these foods, however, are sugary foods, such as jello and candy. But worry not! You can make homemade foods that contain gelatin, which are healthier for you. Here is a list of foods you can make right from your kitchen:
Jellied Cranberry Sauce with Rosemary and Honey: This recipe is just in time for your Thanksgiving feast and contains gelatin, and just the right amount of sweets!
Adding Gelatin to Smoothies: Adding gelatin to your smoothies can give you the boost of protein you need while providing you with other essential nutrients.
Homemade Chewable Vitamins: Here is a good way to get the amount of gelatin and other nutrients you need—by making your own vitamins!
Dark Chocolate Peppermint Cups: These delectable treats are made with gelatin, so that you can get some gelatin in your diet while treating yourself.
What Are The Benefits of Both?
Now that you know about the similarities, differences, and sources of collagen and gelatin, it is important to understand the benefits of these two proteins. Here are some benefits to adding them to your diet:
They Are Healthy Antioxidants: Collagen and gelatin can protect your cells as you age and may prevent heart disease and cancer.
They Can Improve Bone Health: Your bone health is important as you age. Adding collagen and gelatin into your diet can help strengthen your bones.
They Can Help Reduce Signs of Aging: Collagen and gelatin, according to Healthline, may boost skin collagen production and provide anti-aging effects.
Keeping Your Body Healthy With Collagen and Gelatin
Collagen and gelatin are extremely important when it comes to keeping your body healthy. Check out this article to learn about other nutrients and vitamins that you can include in your diet to benefit your overall health.