Gelatin has been touted as a weight loss supplement, a source of protein, and nail and hair strengthener, and a treatment for cartilage loss and arthritis. These claims are largely unsupported by medical theories and research, but as a treatment for cartilage loss and arthritis, Knox and other brands of gelatin have proven to be effective in some clinical trials.
What is Knox Gelatin?
The Knox Gelatin Corporation, now owned by Nabisco, was founded by Charles Knox in the 1890s. As Whole Health MD explains, gelatin is produced by boiling the skins, tendons, and ligaments of cows, pigs, and oxen. Gelatin contains proteins from the animal parts as well as collagen, the primary component of joints, cartilage, and nails.
In addition to its use in Jello and a wide variety of foods as a stabilizer, thickener, and tenderizer, gelatin is used in the casings of medicine and supplement capsules, and has been used in products as varied as film coatings and artificial heart valves.
Claimed Medical Benefits of Knox and Other Gelatins
Since Knox gelatin contains substantial amounts of protein, it was once used as a protein source for dieters. But the protein in in gelatin is not well-utilized by the human body, so it is not useful as a protein source for dieters or anyone else. Knox and other gelatin brands have been touted as hair and nail strengtheners. Knox Orange Drinking Gelatin claimed to improve your nails in one to three months, and KnoxMix is currently sold "for strong nails."
The Mayo Clinic has stated that gelatin supplements and/or soaking your nails in gelatin doesn't help nail health or appearance. Marta Van Beek, professor of dermatology at the University of Iowa College of Medicine concurs. There is little or no scientific proof that gelatin is useful for hair health either.
Possible Health Benefits of Knox Gelatdin
Although the evidence is mixed, Knox Gelatin, and Knox NutriJoint products, which contain gelatin and some other supplements such as glucosamine, have been shown to be helpful for many people with joint pain and arthritis. The theory is that gelatin helps repair and rebuild cartilage that has wore down or become rough, creating inflammation in knees and other joints.
A 1998 study at Ball State University, which was funded by Knox/Nabisco, found that gelatin supplements helped keep the joints of athletes more flexible and lessened pain for some. A German research study also found gelatin to be helpful for joint pain and arthritis. But at least one other research study came to the conclusion that gelatin does not help.
Considerations
Knox and other brands of gelatin have demonstrated the ability to reduce joint pain and help repair and/or rebuilt cartilage in some studies. Since there is no evidence it is harmful, you might want to try it if you suffer from those conditions.
If you are allergic to beef products, you might instead try Certo, a fruit pectin that may be helpful for arthritic conditions.
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