Last Updated on March 8, 2022 by Allison Price
You and your horse can share a few foods, but it’s not hard to find one that’s quite delicious: Jell-O.
Jell-O, the registered trad andmark for the fruity, sugary dessert that we associate with summer, is clear. Jell-O is made from gelatin. This is the generic term used to describe the substance that is derived from animal collagen processing. The delicious and versatile dessert can be made by adding flavoring to the sugar and granulated gellatin.
It can also be used as an equine supplement to increase hair and hoof strength. It’s been used for many years by owners, despite its strange name. You should give it a shot. Let’s see what happens.
What is Jell-O?
Although Jell-O’s origins don’t sound very appealing, you can’t deny that it has a connection to animals. Gelatin is made from collagen, a type protein. It is extracted from boiled bones and connective tissue. You don’t need to worry about hoof or mouth disease because it isn’t from the feet of animals. It is fibrous and connects and supports other tissues such as skin, bone and tendons. It is tasteless and can be found in basic forms of yellow or beige.
It is also much older than you might think. It has been part of many foods since the 15th Century. It became popular in the Victorian era, which was around the middle-to-late 1800s. Gelatin was originally sold in sheets, and needed to be purified. This made it difficult to access for the wealthy, and also made it more expensive. In 1845, powdered gelatin was invented. It was then trademarked as Jell-O in 1897. It’s now a popular product, with many flavors and variations.
What can it do for your horse?
Horse owners are often concerned about poor quality protein as it can affect horses in training. Horses in this situation are often fed oat chaff and oats that don’t provide the necessary protein. Many owners enjoy adding gelatin to their horses’ diets. It is used primarily to improve hoof health in much the same way that we can safely consume gelatin capsules to strengthen bones, joints, and even our fingernails. Others use it to stimulate hair growth or treat osteoarthritis. Horse owners found that Jell-O granules can be added to horse feed as a cheap supplement. There are many other hoof supplements, like biotin or flax seed. However, some horse owners prefer its affordability and easy availability from any local grocery.
Although it is true that the cost of biotin-added supplements can be more expensive than regular Jell-O, many people find it to be beneficial. Biotin, also known as vitamin B, is a water-soluble B Vitamin. It is responsible for metabolizing fats, carbohydrates, and influences cell growth. It also affects the amino acids involved with protein synthesis. It helps horses absorb and make the most of the gelatin-derived amino acids. Biotin supplements are free of fat and tryptophan, which is a plus.
But does it have scientific backing?
Although there is not enough evidence to support the claims of gelatin’s health benefits, it’s clear that there are no known health risks. Although gelatin has no known interactions with any drugs or nutrients, some people may be allergic to bovine gelatin.
A group of European scientists recently conducted a study showing that gelatin is a building block of cartilage. They fed 12 horses regular hay diets and added gelatin to another group. The horses fed gelatin showed higher levels proline and glycine after six days. This is a sign that the gelatin’s amino acid were rapidly absorbed. Owners claim that their horses have improved their hoof condition in as little as 30 days. Studies from the 1990s showed that gelatin is effective in reducing osteoarthritis of the hip and knee and improving joint health.
Do horses like it?
Gelatin or Jell-O is a common ingredient in horses’ feeds. It doesn’t matter what flavor or type (e.g. sugar-free) – regular Jell-O is fine. It seems that feeding your pet about 1-2 ounces per day is the ideal amount. Some horses need 1/4 cup in the morning, and another 1/4 cup at night. If the horse’s condition doesn’t improve after six months, it might be time to try another breed. The important thing is to remember that horses can eat Jell O without any problems.
Is it worthwhile?
Jell-O is relatively cheap, especially considering all the costly horse supplements available. Keep in mind that what works for one horse might not work for another. Responses to questions like gelatin depend on the horse’s overall health, breed, and genes. It’s well worth the effort. Gelatin capsules can be used to give your skin a youthful glow.
It’s possible to get a Jell-O box for as low as $10 and have it shipped right to your door.
