It is crucial to maintain healthy joints, as they are pivotal for our mobility. Joints, the connective tissues between bones, when afflicted with pain, can significantly hinder our movement. Untreated, joint pain can evolve into a more severe, debilitating condition.
Joint pain commonly affects individuals who are overweight, have sustained injuries, or are elderly. As per Web MD, various conditions can result in joint discomfort, including strains, gout, sprains, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, bursitis, and other injuries.
How to Treat Joint Pain
Some studies indicate that regular consumption of gelatin may be an effective way to prevent joint pain. Gelatin, a protein derived from boiling animal products, contains collagen, which is crucial for forming cartilage and bone. Collagen, a fibrous protein, strengthens the body's connective tissues and provides elasticity to bones, allowing them to stretch without breaking.
As we age, the body produces less collagen, leading to an increase in cross-linking between individual collagen fibers. Gelatin, due to its collagen content, has shown potential in treating conditions like osteoarthritis and osteoporosis, and in aiding the recovery from stress-related injuries.
Chris D’Adamo, PhD, an assistant professor at the University of Maryland School of Medicine in Baltimore and an integrative medical specialist, believes that gelatin may reduce arthritis pain because it is essentially ground-up cartilage. A study in 2000 involving 175 patients found that daily gelatin supplements, along with calcium and vitamin C, improved joint stiffness, pain levels, and mobility in those with osteoarthritis.
Sean S. McCarthy, MS, from the Center for Clinical and Lifestyle Research in Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, suggests that gelatin supplementation could potentially enhance knee function during high-stress activities.
How to Make Pomegranate Gelatin
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of water
- 2 pomegranates (peeled)
- 5 tbsp of powdered gelatin
- 2 tbsp of organic honey
Directions:
- Take a pan, pour in the water, and bring it to a boil.
- Add the pomegranates.
- Cover and let it cook on medium heat for 25 minutes, or until the water turns very red.
- Once cooked, remove from the heat and strain the mixture.
- Return the liquid to the pan, add the gelatin, and whisk until it dissolves.
- Add the organic honey and stir for 1-2 minutes.
- Pour the mixture into your favorite silicone mold and refrigerate for 1 hour (grease your mold with some coconut oil for easy removal of the gummies).
Benefits of Gelatin:
- Improves Skin Elasticity: Regular consumption of gelatin can enhance skin quality since it is essentially cooked collagen, which firms the skin, gives a youthful appearance, and reduces wrinkles.
- Prevents Toxic Build-Up: Gelatin contains glycine, an amino acid that enhances the liver's ability to remove toxins from the body, aiding in detoxification.
- Rich in Protein: Regular consumption of gelatin is beneficial as it supports the musculoskeletal system. Each tablespoon of powdered gelatin contains 6 grams of protein, aiding in muscle building.
Additionally, it's important to exercise to improve joint health. Proper care of your joints is crucial to maintain mobility and strength.
