Boost Your Health with Bone Broth.

It’s no secret that our body works best when it’s nourished with a well-rounded diet. Bone broth is an age-old traditional remedy used by our ancestors for hundreds of years. It has made a comeback in recent years, and for good reason. Bone broth is highly nutritious, easy to make, and has a plethora of health benefits that most people are unaware of. This article will explore the all-around benefits of bone broth, including how to make it, its nutritional content, and what scientific research says about the potential health benefits.

What is bone broth?

Bone broth is a nutrient-dense stock that is made by simmering bones of animals, such as chicken, beef, pork, and fish in water for an extended period. It is then seasoned with herbs and vegetables for added flavor. This slow cooking process allows the bones to release all their essential nutrients, including collagen, gelatin, magnesium, potassium, calcium, and phosphorus. The collagen and gelatin contain essential amino acids that the body needs for healthy bones, skin, and joints.

Bone broth can be consumed on its own, incorporated into soups and stews, or used as a base for sauces and gravies. The flavor and nutritional content will depend on the type of bones used, cooking time, and seasoning.

Nutritional Content of Bone Broth:

Bone broth is renowned for its high nutrient density. Here are some of the essential vitamins and minerals found in bone broth:

• Collagen and Gelatin: Collagen and gelatin are the building blocks for bones, skin, joints, and connective tissue. They are essential for maintaining healthy skin, reducing wrinkles, improving joint health and aiding in digestion.
• Calcium: Bone broth is an excellent non-dairy source of calcium, which is essential for building strong bones and teeth.
• Magnesium: Magnesium is a mineral that is required for hundreds of chemical reactions in the body, including muscle and nerve function. It also helps regulate blood pressure.
• Phosphorus: Phosphorus is an essential mineral that is needed for healthy bone formation.
• Potassium: Potassium is responsible for maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance in the body. It is also essential for muscle and nerve function.
• Glutamine: Glutamine is an amino acid that is essential for the growth and repair of cells in the body. It is also vital for maintaining a healthy gut lining.
• Chondroitin and glucosamine: These compounds are essential for joint health and have been shown to reduce inflammation and improve joint mobility.
• Amino acids: Bone broth contains a range of essential and non-essential amino acids, including proline, glycine, and arginine. These amino acids are required for building and repairing tissues in the body.

Health Benefits of Bone Broth:

1. Strengthens and supports bones, teeth, and nails: The nutrients in bone broth, including calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus, are essential for maintaining healthy bones, teeth, and nails. The collagen and gelatin found in bone broth also provide the body with the building blocks for healthy bones.
2. Supports digestion: The amino acids found in bone broth, including glycine and glutamine, are essential for maintaining a healthy gut lining. They also help regulate stomach acid production and aid in the digestion and absorption of nutrients.
3. Boosts immune function: Bone broth contains a range of essential vitamins and minerals, including zinc and vitamin C, which are crucial for a healthy immune system. The amino acids in bone broth, including arginine, also support immune function by helping the body produce and repair white blood cells.
4. Improves joint health: The chondroitin and glucosamine found in bone broth are essential for maintaining healthy joints. They reduce inflammation, improve joint mobility, and help protect against osteoarthritis.
5. Supports skin and nail health: The collagen and gelatin found in bone broth are essential for maintaining healthy skin and nails. They reduce wrinkles and fine lines, increase skin elasticity, and improve nail strength.
6. Helps reduce inflammation: The amino acids in bone broth, including glycine and proline, have anti-inflammatory properties. This makes it an excellent remedy for conditions that involve inflammation, such as arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and asthma.
7. Aids in weight loss: Bone broth is low in calories and high in protein, making it an excellent addition to a weight-loss diet. The protein in bone broth also helps keep you feeling full for longer, reducing the likelihood of overeating.
8. Reduces stress and anxiety: The amino acid glycine found in bone broth has calming properties that help reduce stress and anxiety. It also improves sleep quality, which is essential for overall health.

How to make bone broth:

Ingredients:

• Bones (chicken, beef, pork, or fish)
• Water
• Apple cider vinegar
• Vegetables (optional)- onions, carrots, celery
• Herbs and spices (optional)- bay leaves, peppercorns, thyme, rosemary

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the bones in the oven for 30 minutes.
3. Place the bones and water in a large stockpot or slow cooker. Add 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar.
4. Add any vegetables, herbs, and spices.
5. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
6. Let the broth simmer for 6-24 hours, depending on the type of bones used.
7. Once the broth is ready, remove the bones, vegetables, and herbs with a slotted spoon.
8. Pour the broth through a strainer into a container to remove any remaining solids.
9. Let the broth cool, then refrigerate or freeze.

Conclusion

Bone broth is an incredibly nutritious food that has numerous health benefits. It is easy and affordable to make and can be incorporated into your diet in various ways. From improving digestion to reducing inflammation, adding bone broth to your diet is an excellent way to boost your overall health and wellbeing.