Bone Broth Benefits
There is a reason why it is called Liquid Gold Bone Broth, because that is exactly what it is, a precious nourishing gold liquid. Now why is it so special? Simply because of the gelatin and collagen component. Collagen is found in the bones and connective tissues of animals, and as you can imagine consuming this part of the animal raw is pretty unpalatable. Imagine chewing on a beef knuckle? I didn't think so.
Gelatin is formed when collagen is broken down (cooked and simmered), and collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body. It is found in our skin, hair, nails muscles, tendons, ligaments, organs… it is literally everywhere.
Unfortunately for us, collagen production decreases as we age, as does the body’s ability to heal and repair itself. Thankfully Liquid Gold Bone Broth can supply us with a natural and absorbable form of collagen and gelatin plus much more nutrition!
What are the health benefits of drinking bone broth?
1. Heals the gut and promotes digestion
Gelatin contains amino acids (building blocks of protein) that are important for gut integrity and function. This means healing and sealing holes that might be in the gut wall if you are suffering with leaky gut syndrome. Glutamine and glycine are amino acids present in bone broth that work to help to reduce inflammation in the body and in the gut. Gelatin improves digestion by increasing gastric acid secretion, which is key for breaking down and absorbing our food. Gelatin also provides a healthy environment allowing our gut microbiome to flourish.
2. Boosts Immunity
There is a reason your parents fed you soup as a child, and why you still eat it now when you’re feeling ill. The amino acids present in the broth help improve your immunity. There is also real science to back up the benefits of the nutrients found in bone broth for immune support and recovery time from the common cold. Cysteine which is found in higher proportions in chicken bone broth has been shown to thin mucus and get mucus moving which reduces recovery time.
Furthermore, around 80% of the immune system is located in the gut. It is the first line of defense and often the first entry point for pathogens (bad bacteria and viruses). If the lining or balance of bacteria is compromised, your internal body is exposed to foreign materials and toxins, placing extra stress on the immune system. Maintaining a strong gut lining and healthy gut flora is key to a strong immune system and our general health.
3. Supports weight loss
Bone broth is low calorie and highly satisfying! It contains proteins and good fats to keep you satiated. The amino acid glutamine assists in reducing sugar cravings whilst glycine helps to regulate insulin, the hormone responsible for controlling our blood sugar levels. When insulin function is impaired, glucose can’t be utilized for energy and is stored as fat.
4. Natural sports supplement
Bone broth contains the amino acids required for muscle recovery and growth. It also provides a natural source of sodium and magnesium, which are important electrolytes for athletes that are lost in sweat during exercise.
5. Improves sleep and mood
Glycine has been shown to improve sleep quality and reduce daytime sleepiness. Your gut is responsible for producing up to 80% of the serotonin found in your body, one of the leading neurotransmitters that generates your happy thoughts. Also, glycine is an anti-inflammatory amino acid that has a calming effect on the central nervous system.
6. Support liver detoxification
Bone broth is rich in Glycine which plays a key role in your liver detoxification pathway.
7. Keep skin tight, nails strong and hair luscious
Collagen makes up around 80% of our skin and is the main nutrient found in bone broth. It plays an important role in maintaining skin elasticity and preventing wrinkles and saggy skin. Many skincare products market collagen creams, but collagen is a big molecule and when applied externally isn't easily absorbed by the skin. A more efficient and economic way to keep your skin supple is to consume bone broth which is easily absorbed and utilized. Collagen also helps your hair and nails to grow quicker and strengthen.
8. Promotes healthy joints, tendons and ligaments
Bone broth is packed with glucosamine, chondroitin and hyaluronic acid which are all important for healthy joints, tendons and ligaments. You may have seen these in some over-the-counter arthritis or joint-pain supplements. However, consuming these nutrients through bone broth is much more bio-available, meaning it will be easily absorbed and utilized. Also collagen present in bone broth is the main component of cartilage which is on the end of our bones. It allows our joints to move freely and absorb the shock from movement. Important side note about ingesting collagen: it’s pertinent that you consume vitamin-C through the diet to allow for collagen production.
9. Perfect for those following a keto, paleo or low-carb diet
Bone broth provides great results for those on a keto, paleo or low carbohydrate diet. This is because bone broth fits well with the macro-nutrient requirements on these diets, being low carbohydrate and higher in proteins and fats. Bone broth has nearly no carbohydrates, only minimal amounts from the addition of organic vegetables and contains high amounts of collagen and protein.
10. Great for those undertaking intermittent fasting
Fasting with bone broth is a great way to combine the benefits of intermittent fasting with the added support of amino acids, collagen and minerals bone broth supplies. Intermittent fasting has many benefits including weight loss, lowered blood insulin and sugar levels, improved digestion and much more.
Our dietitian Candace has created multiple wellness programs that include bone broth, intermittent fasting and a keto diet plan to help you feel your healthiest self. These are great to get you back on track and feeling good. To learn more about these programs click here.