Many people, and especially kids, enjoy the occasional Jello as a snack or dessert, but we are rarely aware of the effects that the food we eat has on our digestion.
In this article, we will take a closer look at what Jello is made up of, and determine if Jello can cause constipation, or if it can perhaps help in relieving this condition.
What is in Jello?
The main ingredient found in Jello is gelatine. Gelatine is sourced from animal collagen, which is a protein responsible for multiple essential processes in the human body. Gelatine is also responsible for the wiggly appearance and texture of Jello.
However, commercially available Jello mixes also include sweeteners, flavourings, and colourings. The most commonly used sweetener is a synthetic alternative to regular sugar called Aspartame.
Nevertheless, the mix of ingredients which is typically found in Jello is quite easy to digest. Jello and jelly-like desserts are sometimes even served in hospitals after surgery since gelatine helps to restore the healthy lining of the stomach, which in turn aids digestive health.
Is Jello the same as Jelly?
In essence, the two are more or less the same dessert, with jelly being the popular version in the UK, and Jello being a brand name in the USA.
The ingredients typically found in jelly include sweetened fruit juice, water, gelatine, and sugar. On the other hand, Jello can be purchased in powder form, and it contains sweeteners, gelatine, water artificial flavours, and food colouring.
Can Jello or Jelly make you constipated?
In general, it is unlikely for one to get constipated from Jello or jelly. However, excessive consumption can cause digestive issues, including constipation. This should of course come as no surprise since studies have revealed that binge eating is associated with constipation.
If you or your child is prone to issues with constipation, it is sometimes recommended to limit the consumption of binding foods such as gelatine, fruit snacks, or Jello.
Does sugar-free jello cause constipation?
It is important to note that even sugar-free Jello often contains synthetic sweeteners, such as Aspartame. Consumption of artificial sweeteners has been found to cause a laxative effect in some, especially when combined with foods that can trigger the runs. This is quite the opposite of constipation, but it is hardly a desirable effect.
Moderation is always advised when it comes to the consumption of sweeteners. A number of animal studies have also shown that prolonged consumption of aspartame can lead to systemic inflammation in the body.
Can Jello help constipation?
Jelly contains fruit juice, which has been recommended by doctors for children with constipation. However, the effect of Jello on constipation may not be as noticeable as some alternatives.
If you are unsure about using Jello to help with constipation, you are not in the wrong. There are many other effective foods that can help make you poop.
Some of the foods which are excellent in resolving issues with constipation include:
- Prunes – Prunes also contain sorbitol, which in some individuals may have a laxative effect. Because sorbitol’s sugar alcohol is poorly absorbed by the body, water is pulled into the colon, promoting bowel movement.
- Beans, peas, and lentils – These cheap, fibre-rich foods contain both soluble and insoluble fibre, which can help soften and add bulk to the stool.
- Kefir – Although it is technically not a food, kefir is an important source of probiotics, and the good micro bacteria found in it promote regular bowel movements.
Is Jello good for diarrhoea?
Jello contains gelatine, which can be a good addition if you have diarrhoea. Still, most types of Jello you can buy will contain sugar or artificial sweeteners, which are known for their tendency to cause diarrhoea in some.
Homemade sugar-free Jello could be beneficial for gut health. One of the main amino acids found in Gelatine is called glutamic acid, which is broken down into glutamine in the body, and glutamine has been shown to have an important role in maintaining a healthy gut.
Is Jello good or bad for constipation?
Jello and jelly are popular snacks for people of all ages, but their impact on digestion can vary from person to person. While eating Jello once in a while is unlikely to cause constipation, it is always a good idea to practice moderation.
Additionally, Jello from the store is generally packed with sugar or sweeteners, which is neither healthy nor good for your daily calorie intake.
If you are feeling symptoms of constipation, staying away from Jello for a little bit could be a good idea. Instead, try some of the foods we’ve mentioned, as they are guaranteed to help your bowels get back on track.
