Gelatin is a seemingly innocuous ingredient you are probably most familiar with in your favorite, jiggly dessert: Jell-O. This animal protein (consisting of collagen) is actually used in a lot of products, from makeup to gummy bears. But this versatile ingredient offers a lot more benefits than just keeping your favorite treat gelled, according to Healthy and Natural World.

Some researchers believe that the collagen properties of this common ingredient offer a variety of health benefits, particularly for patients with arthritis and other bone and joint problems.

Gelatin for Osteoarthritis 

According to Healthy and Natural World, the American Academy of Family Physicians discussed a study that indicated that patients with osteoarthritis in their knees who took a gelatin supplement had significant improvement in pain and stiffness. The patients in this study also consumed additional vitamin C. Healthy and Natural World recommends increasing your vitamin C intake in addition to taking a gelatin supplement to achieve maximum results. 

Gelatin for Bones and Joints
Gelatin is believed to help ease joint and bone pain because it is made from collagen. This is the same material that makes up cartilage and bone, according to WebMD. In addition, gelatin also contains calcium, magnesium and phosphorus, which can also help strengthen bone, Grass Fed Girl reports. 

Gelatin for Skin and Hair
If the word collagen sounds familiar to you, it's probably because many people associate it with cosmetic surgery. Collagen is actually a common ingredient used in anti-aging procedures and fillers. And there's a good reason: Your body produces less collagen as you age, which causes wrinkles. Ingesting collagen is more effective than creams, Grass Fed Girl claims, because the collagen molecules in the creams are too big for your skin to absorb. 

Gelatin Balances Hormones
Ease your estrogen overload with a daily dose of gelatin. "Too much estrogen in the body ... can cause inflammation, infertility and promote accelerated aging. The ... seemingly endless benefits of gelatin have anti-estrogenic effects which can help offset the effects of excess estrogen in the body," Wellness Mama reports. 

Gelatin Keeps the Digestive System Moving
Creating a broth from gelatin can help your digestive system work better and keep you regular, according to Wellness Mama. Grass Fed Girl reports that it works as a digestive aid because it contains amino acids that promote the production of digestive juices.

If you want to add more gelatin to your diet, there are a few healthy alternatives to noshing on Jell-O and gummy bears (though that kind of diet would be pretty easy to follow ... ). Try a gelatin supplement or an organic bone broth, according to Grass Fed Girl.