Drinking bone broth may be beneficial for joints and the digestive system, among other things. The bones and tissues of many types of animals can produce good bone broth. Bone broth also contains other important nutrients, especially minerals, derived from these tissues. What are the main health benefits of bone broth? Since it is one of the best sources of collagen protein along with other compounds that help joints, the benefits of bone broth include promoting joint comfort and mobility, skin health, healthy bowel function, and a healthy immune system.
While it is easier to prepare broth in large quantities, it can only be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. While there is limited research on the health benefits of bone broth specifically, it is rich in glycine and arginine, which have anti-inflammatory properties. Research highlights that GAGs help digestive health by helping to restore the intestinal lining. This slow cooking causes bones and ligaments to release healing compounds such as collagen, proline, glycine and glutamine, which have the power to transform health.
Studies have shown that chondroitin supplementation supports a healthy response to inflammation, as well as cardiovascular health, bone health, skin health and healthy cholesterol levels. Because it's packed with nutrients, bone broth can offer a variety of potential health benefits, says Lon Ben-Asher, RD, LDN, nutrition specialist and educator at the Pritikin Longevity Center. It has gained popularity as a health drink, as it is believed to heal everything from the digestive tract to the skin and joints, but clinical research is limited. Bone broth helps support the loss of cartilage health, acting as an alternative to expensive glucosamine supplements.
Bone broth is also often included in dietary regimens such as the GAPS diet, which aims to support gut health. Collagen is the main source of protein found in bones, tendons and ligaments, so drinking broth provides amino acids that can help joint health. Bone broth powder is also a great option if you prefer a lighter beverage but want abundant flavor and nutrition. The amount of bone broth you should try to drink each day can vary widely, depending on your nutritional needs and health goals.
When added sodium levels are kept low, bone broth contains an ideal balance of sodium and potassium to support cellular health and efficiency and prevent electrolyte imbalance. It's a very popular supplement (with many different flavors) that can be used in shakes, baked goods, and more, and has many protein benefits from bone broth. If you're looking to take advantage of the benefits of bone broth, but prefer a product that can't be stored, that's easy to use and that's low in sodium, you may prefer a powdered bone broth supplement, such as beef collagen from bone broth from Vital Proteins.
