Hey All! This week we gave you our newest recipe for Healthy Carrot Cake Muffins, (you're definitely gonna want to make it) and have received quite a few questions regarding collagen and the gelatin powder used in recipe.

Questions Like....
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• What are the benefits?
• Is there a difference between collagen and gelatin?
• How can I use gelatin?

See our recent nerdy nutrition reel HERE.

So, we wanted to take a minute to dig a bit deeper into the nutrition side of things. If you’re ready, let’s put on our reading glasses and get a little nerdy! We’ll answer all your questions and more below! Plus, keep reading to find an exclusive discount code just for YOU!

​Collagen vs Gelatin​

Collagen: The most abundant protein in the body, it has a fiber-like structure that is used to make connective tissue in the body. It’s naturally found in the connective tissue of animals but is difficult to digest in forms that have not been hydrolyzed. (Source)

Collagen Peptides (aka collagen hydrolysate): Derived from collagen, collagen peptides are short chains of amino acids that have been broken down from the full-length collagen molecules through the process of hydrolysis. As a result, they are much more bioavailable (easy to digest and absorb).

You can learn more about the various types and sources of collagen here.

Gelatin: Gelatin is a form of collagen that has undergone partial hydrolysis. It’s formed by mixing collagen with water and slowly heating the mixture. The partially hydrolyzed amino acid chains in gelatin hold on to water, creating a gelling effect.

​To Summarize: ​
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Collagen is a connective tissue found in the skin, tissues, and bones of animals.

Gelatin is made from collagen through the process of partial hydrolysis which breaks down the long amino acid chains of collagen into medium-length chains that absorb water. As a result, it is more easily absorbed by the body.

Both collagen and gelatin provide the same health benefits. However, the main difference is in how they’re used. Hydrolyzed collagen can be dissolved in beverages and soups and is easily added to baked goods. Meanwhile, gelatin is best used in jello, gummies, and as a thickener in smoothies, soups, and puddings.

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Gelatin:

Where It Comes From & Why It Matters
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As you now know, gelatin is derived from protein sources including beef, chicken, fish, and pig. However, not all gelatin is created equal. To ensure the highest quality, it’s important to look for sources such as Further Foods Premium Gelatin that are sourced from 100% grass-fed protein, have been tested for heavy metals, are Kosher certified, and made without artificial ingredients or preservatives. Otherwise, you may be getting a gelatin such as those found on generic gelatine packets that is full of not-so-great ingredients, chemicals, and fillers that detract from its benefits!

Health Benefits
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Collagen and gelatin are both great supplements to add to your diet and offer many of the same health benefits including:

• Improved hair, skin, and nail health
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• Reducing gut inflammation and aiding in digestion
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• Strengthening bones and joints
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• Helping to maintain lean body mass and improving muscle repair
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How to Use Gelatin

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​As the name suggests, gelatin works as a great gelling agent in foods such as jello and gummies. However, it can also be added to soup, stews, smoothies, and more as a thickener. ​
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Some of my favorite recipes with gelatin include:

​Gut-Healthy Homemade Gummies​
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​3-Ingredient Healthy Jello (No-Sugar Added)​
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​Immunity Boosting Elderberry Gummies​

Bonus Baking Tip + Nutritional Booster
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If you’re using an egg instead of the gelatin egg mixture in ANY baked good, then try adding a scoop of Vanilla Collagen Peptides Powder to your batter to help boost the protein content and add in even more health benefits! Using vanilla hydrolyzed grass-fed collagen peptides powder will only improve your recipes by adding an extra rich and creamy taste. In fact, you can add it to pretty much any baked goods recipe! See our tips in our Carrot Cake Muffin Recipe.

As always, feel free to hit reply to this email if you have questions! We’re here to support and help you on your gluten free journey.