Around 80% to 90% of stomach ulcers occur due to a bacterial infection or long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), namely, aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen. When the thick layer of mucus fails to protect your stomach from digestive acids, a stomach ulcer inevitably forms.

The common myth floating around is that certain food items cause stomach ulcers. However, the American College of Gastroenterology clarifies this baseless claim to be false. Based on the severity, stomach ulcer symptoms vary. The most common symptom is a burning sensation in the middle of your abdomen. Other symptoms may also include nausea, vomiting, indigestion, heartburn, bloating, unintentional weight loss, and abdominal tenderness.

Glyprolines—Natural Peptides Stomach Ulcers

Gelatin’s short peptides – glyprolines – consist of amino acids of glycine and proline. It is them that protect the stomach mucous tunic from injuries. The highest antiulcer activity was discovered by the researchers with the PGP-sequence peptide: proline, glycine, proline. Glyprolines are easily absorbed in the stomach and remain in the blood for a long time without breaking up. They act not only on the stomach cells but also on the central nervous system overcoming the blood-brain barrier, therefore they cure even the ulcers caused by stress.

Glyprolines are natural peptides. They are generated in the organism in the course of collagen synthesis or decomposition. During the experiments carried out by the Moscow biologists, gelatin (partly hydrolyzed collagen) added to rats’ feed partly protected the rats from ulcer. Further experiments were carried out by the researchers with gelatin hydrolysate. Processing gelatin by hydrochloric acid imitates the process taking place in the stomach. After gelatin hydrolysis was performed, the researchers educed and refined about 30 short peptides, also including glyprolines.

It has turned out that gelatin peptides reinforce resistance of the stomach mucous tunic to ethanol and stress action, decreasing the ulcer area by twice. If peptides are introduced to the animals with already developed ulcer, it will also close quicker. Therapeutic effect was revealed by peptides not only in case of intraperitoneal introduction but also in case of intragastric introduction, this method being even more effective.

The researchers point out that gelatin hydrolysate produces protective and medicinal effect comparable to the action of pure PGP peptide, which is currently known as the most active glyproline. In the researchers’ opinion, not only the above-mentioned glyprolines but also short peptides unknown so far participate in the antiulcer action of gelatin peptides. Therefore, to produce the most promising protective and medicinal antiulcer drugs, the researchers are planning to investigate the action of all substances that make part of gelatin hydrolysate.

What Recent Studies Support the Use of Gelatin Hydrolysate in Ulcer Treatment?

Recent scientific studies have provided insights into ulcer treatments using gelatin hydrolysate:

• Peptide-Based Therapies: This 2024 review explores peptide-based compounds, including natural neuropeptide analogs and synthetic substances, for effective and safe treatments for gastric ulcers.
• Enzymatic Hydrolysis Techniques: Research on different enzymatic hydrolysis methods has shown that the process can enhance the bioactive properties of gelatin hydrolysates, demonstrating the highest antioxidant activity.
• Functional Properties of Gelatin Hydrolysates: Studies have examined the functional properties of gelatin hydrolysates, such as increasing Pro-Hyp and Hyp-Gly at μM levels in human plasma and water-holding capacity, which may contribute to their therapeutic effects.

Are there any Side Effects of Gelatin Hydrolysate?

While gelatin hydrolysate appears to be a promising natural treatment for ulcers, it’s imperative to consider potential side effects and interactions with other treatments. As with any treatment or medication, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting treatment. Patients with specific health conditions or those taking other medications must seek professional advice before usage.

Exploring the Potential of Gelatin Hydrolysate in Stomach Ulcer Treatment

Stomach ulcers, commonly caused by bacterial infections or NSAID use, can cause severe discomfort to patients. While myths about food-causing ulcers persist, modern research emphasizes the role of natural compounds like glyprolines in healing stomach ulcers. Gelatin hydrolysate, a source of these peptides, has shown promising results in studies, enhancing stomach protection and expediting ulcer recovery. Despite its potential, it is necessary to consult healthcare professionals before considering gelatin hydrolysate as a treatment, especially for those with underlying health conditions or taking other medications.