Superfoods: Bone Broth is the New Health Elixir
There has been a lot of fanfare around bone broth and for good reason! This savory, soothing soup stock delivers incredible benefits, from healing leaky gut to reducing joint pain. As a nutrition blogger and self-proclaimed bone broth enthusiast, I am here to tell you why I love it so much and of course share why I think the hype is well-deserved. Let’s dive in and take a look at the science-backed superpowers of bone broth and how to incorporate it for better health and longevity.
What Exactly is Bone Broth?
Unlike regular broth or stock made from simmered meat, bone broth cooks beef, chicken, or fish bones for at least 12-24 hours. This long cook time with added acid from vinegar or lemon juice helps extract nutrients from the bones, including:
- Collagen – provides amino acids like glycine and proline for improved skin, digestion, and joint health.
- Gelatin – helps seal and heal a leaky gut to reduce inflammation.
- Minerals like calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium – supports bone density and heart health.
- Anti-inflammatory compounds like chondroitin and glucosamine – reduces joint pain and arthritis.
- Immune boosters like zinc, manganese, and selenium – protects against illness and infection.
Heal Your Gut with Gelatin Rich Bone Broth
Over 70% of your immune system resides in your gut microbiome. When increased intestinal permeability (aka leaky gut) allows toxins and bacteria to pass into the bloodstream, it triggers systemic inflammation and autoimmune reactions. The gelatin in bone broth can help “seal” and heal holes in the intestinal lining to reduce leaky gut symptoms like bloating, food sensitivities, and fatigue. The amino acids glycine and proline in bone broth also provide the building blocks for healthy gastrointestinal mucosa. Sipping bone broth daily can help repair damage to your gut lining for improved digestion, immunity, and overall wellbeing.
Ease Joint Pain with Bone Broth Nutrients
The glucosamine and chondroitin naturally present in bone broth have been shown to significantly decrease arthritis pain and joint inflammation. These compounds prevent cartilage breakdown and rebuild cushioning around the joints. Bone broth also contains collagen, an essential nutrient for healthy bone matrix and flexibility. As we age, collagen production declines leading to brittle bones and painful joints. The collagen peptides in bone broth provide the raw materials to reinforce bones and joints, reducing discomfort.
Promote Heart Health with Mineral Rich Bone Broth
Drinking bone broth provides minerals like calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus that support cardiovascular health. The amino acids in collagen have also been shown to inhibit LDL cholesterol oxidation and lower blood pressure. By reducing inflammation, the glycine in bone broth can stabilize heart rhythms and improve poor blood flow. The antioxidants in bone broth minerals protect against free radical damage that leads to clogged arteries. Talk about food for the heart!
Boost Immunity with Nutrient Dense Bone Broth
When it comes to immune health, bone broth is loaded with zinc, selenium, manganese and other minerals that boost white blood cell production. Bone broth also contains glutathione precursors like cysteine which scavenge free radicals throughout the body. The collagen in bone broth forms antibodies to target and destroy foreign invaders so you don’t get sick. The anti-inflammatory nature of bone broth also lowers risk of excessive immune reactions.
Sleep Better with Calming Bone Broth
The glycine in bone broth has been shown to improve sleep quality and morning alertness. Glycine helps regulate your circadian rhythm for deeper, more restorative sleep. Having a cup before bed can also boost growth hormone levels for additional anti-aging benefits. Bone broth is also rich in the amino acid tryptophan. Tryptophan is used by the body to produce serotonin and melatonin, two key hormones for quality sleep. So long story short, bone broth is essential in delivering those zzzs!
Turn Flab into Muscle with Protein Packed Bone Broth
Dieters, listen up! Bone broth provides a nourishing dose of easy-to-digest protein to help build lean muscle mass. The amino acids in collagen support tissue regrowth and repair after exercise to aid workout recovery. Bone broth only contains about 150 calories per serving, making it the perfect way to up your protein intake without unwanted fat and carbs. The collagen may also suppress appetite hormones like ghrelin to curb cravings.
The Takeaway: Drink Up for Whole Body Benefits
Hopefully you’re convinced and ready to grab a sip or two because the benefits of bone broth are just too good to ignore. This savory soup contains protein, essential amino acids, and minerals that support total body health. It heals the gut, eases joint pain, protects the heart, boosts immunity, promotes restorative sleep, builds muscle, and so much more.
While bone broth has deep roots in ancient cooking traditions, modern science confirms it somewhat of a big deal! So embrace the magic of bone broth. Your gut, joints, heart and immune system will than you!
