Good Gut Gummies — erinlamb

Collagen is the most abundant protein found in humans and animals. Gelatin is a clear, tasteless product derived from cooking collagen from animal parts. You may have noticed when you make bone broth there is a congealed layer – this is gelatin!

Gelatin is 98% protein, however not a complete protein as it is missing some amino acids (the building blocks of proteins.)

Why is gelatin important?

Gelatin is rich in amino acids providing us with many health benefits. One of the amino acids in gelatin, called glutamic acid, is converted to glutamine in the body. Glutamine has been shown to support the strength of the gut wall. If our gut wall loses its integrity, this can lead to a leaky gut where the wall becomes too permeable allowing bacteria and other substances into the blood stream which can result in food sensitivities.

A diet rich in gelatin promotes optimal digestion, gut health, glowing skin, nails, joints and supports better sleep.

Although our body does make some gelatin, we don’t produce enough especially as we age, which is why it is important to include it in our diet. Traditionally we ate many sources of animal products high in gelatin, such as skin, cartilage, tendons, and other gelatinous cuts of meat. Today, many of us only consume muscle meat, which has lots of benefits but is not a great source of these collagen connective proteins that our bodies need.

Eating more gelatinous cuts of meat, drinking bone broth or making good gut gummies are a great way to ensure you are getting more gelatin in your diet!

Important notes for making your homemade gelatin gummies…

Why is it important to let your gelatin bloom?

Blooming gelatin is a step integral to ensuring the smooth texture of a finished product. It involves sprinkling the powdered gelatin into a liquid and letting it sit for 3 to 5 minutes. Then, when the mixture is heated, the gelatin will dissolve evenly. You can bloom gelatin in just about any liquid.

How do I know when my gelatin is blooming?

It will begin to absorb the liquid and swell in size.