

Just like humans take gelatin to grow strong nails and hair, it is safely fed to horses for the same reasons. In the horse industry gelatin is used as a feed supplement to aid in hoof and hair growth and to strengthen the hoof. Also, there are non-animal gel sources such as agar-agar (a seaweed) and interestingly enough there is a horse supplement based on seaweed and other nutrient from the ocean! There is no known drug or nutrient interactions associated with gelatin however some people are allergic to bovine (cow) gelatin. There is no conclusive evidence of the benefits of gelatin but there are also no known health risks. Based on these findings, researchers are currently exploring whether supplemental gelatin might play a role in rebuilding arthritic joints. Two of the amino acids found in gelatin are substances the body uses to make collagen, a primary component of connective tissues such as cartilage.

Gelatin is also considered to possibly promote joint health. Gelatin has long been considered to strengthen hair and nails as well as make them both grow much faster. It is composed of mostly protein and contains eighteen amino acids. In its most basic form, commercially processed edible gelatin is a tasteless beige or pale yellow powder or granules. Contrary to popular belief, gelatin is not rendered from the feet or horns of animals (no fear of hoof and mouth disease). Fibrous in nature, it connects and supports other bodily tissues, such as skin, bone, tendons, muscles, and cartilage.) Commercially, gelatin is most typically obtained from cattle hides and bones and pigskins. Gelatin is a substance derived from the processing of animal collagen. It is relatively inexpensive and definitely worth the try when compared to the pricey hoof and joint supplements out there. Giving a horse gelatin is like everything else – some things work for some and not others. The absence of collagen fibers to hold cartilage in place as buffers would result in bones grinding against each other. The entire structure, flexibility and strength of cartilage are due to collagen fibers.
GELATIN BENEFITS JOINTS TRIAL
Another study in 1994 by Beuker and Rosenfeld, using a randomized blinded, placebo-controlled trial of 92 geriatric patients, found that gelatin appears to have a significantly positive effect on joint health by reducing the sensation of pain and enhancing mobility compared to a placebo. (1991), using randomized double-blinded crossover trial of 52 patients with hip or knee osteoarthritis, found that gelatin supplements improved symptoms related to joint pain compared to a placebo. A study published in Therapiewoche by Adam ET. Studies in Europe now show that gelatin provides building blocks of cartilage effectively providing nutritional support required for cartilage regeneration. Using Gelatin to Promote Hoof Growth and Health
