Collagen is the most abundant protein found in the human body. Found in our muscles, bones, tendons and skin, it is essential for mobility and is what gives our skin its elasticity.
Collagen vs Gelatin: What’s The Difference?
Often times, when people talk about collagen, they will use the term gelatin interchangeably. In the simplest of terms, gelatin is derived from collagen when collagen is broken down. So, basically, the same thing in a different form. A perfect example is when bones- full of collagen- are cooked to make bone broth, the end product contains the gelatinous gelatin instead of collagen.
While very similar in many ways, there are some slight differences between the two. Both are odorless and tasteless and have very similar amino acid profiles. How they are used, though, is where the greatest difference is.
Adding Collagen to Your Diet
Collagen peptides dissolve completely in both hot and cold liquids, making it easy to incorporate into most anything. From hot tea or coffee to cold smoothies or even just a glass of water, you won’t even notice it is there.
Gelatin, on the other hand, dissolves completely in hot liquids, but becomes thick and gelatinous in cold liquids. This version is great to add to soups, broths or to use when baking. You can also use gelatin to make a healthy gummy snack (think healthy gummy bears!). Gelatin does take slightly longer to digest and coats the small intestine, which makes it a better choice for those looking to heal their gut from any digestive issues, like leaky gut.
Collagen: The Best Natural Anti Aging Treatment
Collagen production occurs naturally within the body, but it slows down significantly with age, causing us to lose skin elasticity and mobility in our joints- among other things. Increasing collagen levels can help make skin look firmer and smoother and helps replace dead skin cells, which is why it is often referred to as one of the best natural anti aging secrets out there. The increased elasticity in your skin can also reduce the appearance of cellulite.
An increase in collagen will do a whole lot more than just give you that youthful look, though. You may feel younger, too, as your tendons and ligaments start to move with more ease. Collagen is actually a proven treatment for osteoarthritis, reducing joint stiffness and swelling. Other benefits of collagen include stronger teeth and nails and improved gut health.
| Increased Collagen Levels Lead To: |
|---|
| Firmer skin |
| Improved joint mobility |
| Improved gut health |
| Stronger nails and teeth |
| Boosted metabolism |
| Improved detoxification |
| Reduction in cellulite |
How To Increase Collagen Levels Naturally
Both collagen peptides and gelatin are readily available on the market in powder form. I, personally, love Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides because I can add it to my smoothies easily or just put it in my tea if I don’t have a smoothie that day. You don’t even notice it’s there, but it is quietly working wonders on your body.
Bone broth is another great source of collagen (Well, technically it’s considered gelatin once it’s been cooked). You can purchase a quality bone broth online, in your local health food stores, at a local health-conscious restaurant or you can make your own. Here’s a great bone broth recipe if you want to try making your own.
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