Gelatin is a versatile food that can be used in the preparation of a variety of dishes, particularly desserts. Several different flavors in both regular and sugar-free versions make gelatin an easy addition to your diet. Gelatin is naturally low in fat, and the sugar-free variety contains approximately 10 calories in a single serving. Gelatin alone should never be utilized as a means of weight loss, but it can be useful in helping you lose weight when combined with a healthy diet and exercise regimen. Check with your doctor before making significant dietary changes.
Appetizer
Because gelatin is made with water, eating the sugar-free version of your favorite flavor before a meal can help fill your stomach so you eat fewer calories overall. In addition, having a serving of sugar-free flavored gelatin before each meal can help you achieve the minimum recommended 64 oz. of water you should consume daily, according to the Mayo Clinic. Getting enough fluid in your diet can help maintain your energy levels so you can be more physically active. Your body will also be more efficient at getting rid of waste products, including the byproducts of fat that you burn off in physical activity.
Dessert
With approximately 10 calories in a serving, you can afford to enjoy sugar-free flavored gelatin instead of a sugar- and fat-laden traditional dessert that can thwart your diet plan. Prepare several different flavors of sugar-free gelatin and keep them in single-serving containers, mixing complementary flavors for variety. Carry a serving or two with you to work or school and have it as a snack after lunch, instead of turning to the vending machine. For additional sweetness and flavor, top off a serving of sugar-free gelatin with 1 tbsp. of low- or nonfat whipped topping.
Fruit
Add fresh, frozen or canned fruit to your sugar-free flavored gelatin before it sets to add extra sweetness and dietary fiber. The additional fiber from the fruit can help keep you feeling fuller longer so you eat less. Additionally, fruit adds nutrients such as vitamin C, which can help your body recover from exercise-induced physical stress. Choose a variety of fruits to add to your gelatin and experiment with different flavor combinations. Avoid using pineapple in making gelatin, however, because its natural enzymes can prevent the gelatin from becoming firm.
Parfait
For a change of pace, try layering low- or nonfat yogurt and 1 tbsp. of granola with sugar-free flavored gelatin. Top the parfait off with 1 tbsp. of low- or nonfat whipped topping for a low-fat, low-sugar snack or dessert. Packed with dietary fiber, water and some protein, this dessert can be enjoyed by the entire family instead of making separate "diet" versions of your favorite after-dinner treat. Having a gelatin parfait can significantly reduce your calories to less than 100 per serving. The gelatin itself provides just 10 calories, the yogurt has approximately 55 calories and the granola contains approximately 30 calories, so the parfait is under 100 calories.
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