During the Napoleonic Wars, the French used gelatin as a source of protein, but it was largely ineffective. In modern times, gelatin has been touted as a substance that helps grow health nails and hair. But scientific evidence for those claims are lacking. More significantly, gelatin has be used to treat arthritis and joint pain and anecdotal evidence indicates that many people find at least some relief. Clinical studies have yielded conflicting results as of March 2011.
Gelatin
Derived from the Latin word "gelatus," which means stiff or frozen, gelatin is produced by boiling the skin, tendons, ligaments and hides of pigs, cows, horses and donkeys. It has no smell or taste. In addition to a food source, gelatin is used to make capsules for medications, as well as in film coatings, artificial heart valves and specialized mesh to repair wounds. Gelatin is similar to collagen type 2, which makes up the connecting tissues of the body, including cartilage. The Arthritis Cures website describes cartilage as a slippery surface that allows joints to move freely. In theory, gelatin helps you rebuild cartilage, and more cartilage should mean less joint pain.
Hair and Nails
In theory, there are amino acids in gelatin that will promote hair and nail growth. However, your body already produces plenty of those amino acids. The Knox gelatin company--now owned by Nabisco--sells a product for nail health that is composed of gelatin and Vitamin C. Although the company claims you should see results within one to three months, evidence of the product's effectiveness is hard to find.
Joint Health
In a study sponsored by Nabisco at Ball State University in 1998, gelatin supplements seemed to reduce the joint pain of athletes while keeping their joints more flexible. A study in Germany also found that gelatin eased arthritis pain. But another study found that gelatin worked no better than a placebo.
Considerations
Gelatin is generally safe to take. Other than a rare report of stomach upset, there are few if any side effects. However, people who are allergic to the types of animals used to make gelatin could suffer a reaction from taking it. Even though no harmful interactions with other medications have been reported, it is always a good idea to check with your health-care provider before taking gelatin for joint pain and arthritis.
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