People who were once obese but have since lost weight often have problems exercising owing to joint degeneration caused by carrying excess weight for years. However, I’ve been using a novel protein powder that promotes joint health. My knee pain has gone away and I’m back to running!
Another benefit is the high degree of amino acids this product offers. Amino acids are the building blocks of protein that promotes rapid re-production of blood cells for healing and conditioning over other proteins, especially for bone and joint health care.
Good Bye Whey Protein!
As well, people who’ve had weight loss surgery to address obesity have an increased requirement for protein. Whey protein shakes often become a staple of our diets. However if you’re like me, using whey protein is addressing a problem with another problem.
Like many post-bariatric patients, I am lactose intolerant, sensitive to foods made from dairy. Those who suffer from lactose intolerance can experience mild to moderate discomfort from using products containing whey protein which is made from milk serum.
This novel protein powder that I stumbled upon is dairy-free and provides 11 grams of protein and 43 calories per tablespoon. Add to that, it remains stable in hot or cold protein drinks and recipes!
Collagen Hydrolysate for Joint Health
So what is this protein powder that I’m so excited about? The product is a Collagen Hydrolysate from Great Lakes — a powdered form of gelatin made from collagen. I became acquainted with it when I was began to experience knee pain from running. I enjoy running, and the benefits from the exercise were worth the discomfort for a while. But eventually, I was stuck in a stop and go pattern, sometimes running, sometimes inactive while waiting for the rebound from my joint pain.
I’m pleased to say that now it is all go and no stop since I started using Unflavored Gelatin Collagen Joint Care from Great Lakes as the protein base in my shakes. I buy Great Lakes Unflavored Gelatin Collagen Joint Care on Amazon for about 50 cents per serving. Its also available to order from the Great Lakes gelatin website.
The whey protein powders that are made from the dairy products that fuel my lactose intolerance are no longer the limited option. Gelatin Collagen provides both protein and joint care making it the perfect fit for my bariatric lifestyle.
Great Lakes Gelatin
Gelatin is the purified protein gotten from the selective hydrolysis of collagen from the skin. Collagen is the connective tissue or bones of animals.
Great Lakes Gelatin is unflavored, and the protein doesn’t break down like whey. It can be added to soup or other warm liquids such as coffee and doesn’t have that standard milkshake flavor we all come to tire of.
Although I do not eat red meat as a rule, this product has satisfied me so much that I have made an exception for its use. The best part of it for me is that I can now run and remain pain-free.
Amino Acids
The number of amino acids in Great Lakes Gelatin earn it high grades as well. Amino acids are the bottom for all life processes and are essential for every metabolic process. They transport and store all nutrients such as fat, water, carbohydrates, minerals and vitamins.
Reduce Visible Signs of Aging
Visible anti-aging benefits are attributed to hydrolyzed collagen, according to a study published in Clinical Interventions in Aging. The study suggests that by taking a nutritional supplement containing hydrolyzed collagen, hyaluronic acid, and other vitamins and minerals for 60-days reduced skin dryness and wrinkles.
The Bottom Line
Most diseases including obesity, high cholesterol levels, diabetes, insomnia and arthritis are caused by metabolic disturbances. The myriad of amino acids contained in Great Lakes Gelatin puts me on firmer ground from a health care vantage and is yet one more reason why I am such an enthusiastic supporter of the product.
You should be your own best judge though, so by all means give it a try. You may buy Great Lakes Unflavored Gelatin Collagen Joint Care on Amazon for about $24 for a 16-oz container.
Living larger than ever,
My Bariatric Life
Photo: The Healthy Home Economist