As most people know by, now, I’m a Vital Proteins Ambassador. In exchange for a few posts a month, I get to try different Vital Proteins. I’m not paid to post about them, but I appreciate the opportunity to work with a brand I’ve seen so much success with even before I was an ambassador!
One of the most common questions I’ve received is the differences between Collagen Peptides and Collagen Gelatin. Sometimes you will see gelatin and collagen used interchangeably. Both come from the same sources like bones or tissues, but they’re not the same thing.
An easy way to remember the difference between collagen and gelatin is how they’re processed. The processing method is what gives collagen and gelatin different texture.
What are the Similarities?
Both collagen and gelatin come from the same sources. This means they have identical amino acid profiles. Both have many benefits, including supporting joints, improving sleep, and even anti-inflammatory. They both strengthen hair, skin, and nails, and even help digestion. You can see a full list of benefits here.
What is Gelatin?
I personally have less experience with gelatin, but this month I decided to try the beef gelatin. I didn’t realize (because I didn’t read) that it was unflavored so I thought it would taste like beef! It’s 100% flavorless, colorless, and odorless.
Gelatin is collagen that is boiled and dried. It appears just like collagen peptide powder. However, when it’s mixed with hot liquids, it turns to jello like substance. It’s useful for thickening smoothies and can be made into homemade gummy bears (something I’m trying to do now).
Gelatin is Better for Your Gut:
If you started taking Vital Proteins and Collagen for gut and intestine issues, gelatin is better than peptides for your gut. Gelatin is a thick gel that coats the stomach is slower to digest than regular collagen.
Digestive Health:
Because Gelatin is a gel-like texture, it absorbs water and helps keep the intestinal tract moving. In turn, this can help relieve issues like bloating and constipation. Gelatin can also help improve digestion and nutrient absorption.
But What are the Side Effects?
When first adding gelatin to a diet, some people may also experience side effects with digestion such as gas and bloating. Like anything, it’s important to add slowly and start with a serving each day. You don’t start running high mileage after a break, and you don’t need to go crazy with collagen either.
So What is Best for You? Gelatin or Collagen?
There really isn’t a “wrong” choice, and it all depends on what you need. It comes down to how you want to use the product and what kind of texture and consistency you’re looking for.
Collagen Peptides are faster dissolving. They both also dissolve in hot or cold liquids. The collagen peptides can be used in more of a variety of foods or drinks.
Gelatin must be added to a hot substance to fully dissolve and become “jello.” The health benefit of gelatin is taking longer to digest in the body and coating the intestine. It’s better for someone with a leaky gut.
Here are more Vital Protein Collagen posts:
Skin Benefits from Collagen
Recovering with Collagen Protein
Hair and Nail Benefits of Collagen
Thank you to Vital Proteins for your support!
Questions for you:
Have you used collagen? Have you used gelatin?
Have you ever made homemade jello or gummies?
This is something I’m perfecting now and hopefully I’ll have a post about it soon.
I have never used either collagen or gelatin. However I just really started to check out and research gut health so this is really helpful.
Damn I needed this. Thank for sharing this information. Have tried Gelatin, but haven’t used Collagen
Do you have a recipe you like for gelatin? I’m looking for more!
I’ve heard about these, but I haven’t tried them out yet. Maybe down the line I will! I’d probably go for the collagen if I did.
I just use collagen- I put the powder in my smoothies/shakes and on days I don’t drink a shake, I take the pills. I’ve noticed a big difference in my hair- it’s way thicker than it used to be. Can’t say that I’ve used gelatin before and I’m not sure if I will since the collagen seems to be helping, the benefits are the same, and I (fortunately) do not have a leaky gut.
That makes sense. I like the gelatin because it’s much thicker but the collagen, especially the whey collagen is my favorite.
I love flavorless protein! I was so skeptical the first time I bought egg protein – thankfully it really was flavorless.
I like collagen as it is ready to use. I also like gelatin for for making gummies.
I have never heard about these and never taken collagen. I don’t workout extensively so I never tried any supplements to help my body endure more.
This is new information to me. The only thing that I know about collagen is that it’s for the skin. While gelatin is for Jell-o. 🙂 I’m glad I stumbled upon your post. It’s very informative.
I use gelatin in baking 🙂 This was an interesting read. I learned a lot!
What is your favorite recipe with Gelatin? I have been looking for more gelatin recipes!
I think I need to incorporate Collagen to my diet too. I have brittle hair and nails. They both easily break. I hope this can make some changes to my body.
Interesting article thank you. The children and I have made homemade gummies for the dogs, they loved them! Have to be careful which gelatin/stock to use though.
Do you have a recipe for the gelatin? I am always looking for a good one!
I have never used either collagen or gelatin. I need to start incorporate collagen in my diet. Thanks for this healthy post!
Of course, Olga, let me know if you do! I’m always looking for new recipes.
I LOVE VP collagen and gelatin. I actually love all of their dairy-free products. and I love adding the collagen in everything from pancakes to smoothies.
I am familiar with both from school but not something I have thought of using