What are the functions and benefits of pig's trotters?
Sep 13, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yu Yongchao
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, as a common food ingredient, pig's trotters have functions and benefits including collagen supplementation, protein supplementation, appetite stimulation, mineral supplementation, and assisting in improving skin condition. It should be noted that pig's trotters have a high fat content; excessive consumption may lead to excessive calorie intake. Individuals who are obese or have high blood lipid levels should control their intake.
Generally speaking, as a common food ingredient, pig's trotters have several functions and benefits, mainly including supplementing collagen, providing protein, stimulating appetite, supplying minerals, and assisting in improving skin condition. The specific details are as follows:
1. Supplementing Collagen: Pig's trotters are rich in collagen, a type of protein that is an essential component of skin, bones, and tendons. Moderate consumption can provide collagen to nourish tissues such as skin and joints.
2. Supplementing Protein: Pig's trotters are rich in high-quality protein containing various essential amino acids required by the human body. Protein is the fundamental substance for building body cells and tissues, and consuming pig's trotters helps meet the body's needs for growth, development, and tissue repair.
3. Stimulating Appetite: After being stewed, braised, or cooked using other methods, pig's trotters have a soft, delicious texture that can stimulate taste buds and enhance appetite. For individuals with poor appetite or weak digestion, moderate consumption of properly seasoned pig's trotters can help improve eating habits and increase food intake.
4. Supplementing Minerals: Pig's trotters contain certain amounts of minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, and iron, which play important roles in maintaining bone health and promoting blood formation. Regular consumption of pig's trotters can serve as a source of mineral supplementation, supporting normal physiological metabolism in the body.
5. Assisting in Improving Skin Condition: The collagen in pig's trotters can be digested and absorbed by the body to participate in skin tissue repair and renewal, providing nourishment to the skin. Long-term moderate consumption may help alleviate problems such as dry and inelastic skin dry skin.
When consuming pig's trotters, it should be noted that they contain high levels of fat; excessive consumption may lead to excessive calorie intake and cause obesity. Individuals with obesity or high blood lipids should control their intake. It is recommended to use less oil and salt during cooking to avoid increasing the body's burden. People with weak digestion should also consume them in moderation to prevent gastrointestinal discomfort.
