Top 5 Health Benefits of Chicken Bone Broth
Bone broth has gained popularity recently due to its numerous health benefits, but do you know the difference between chicken bone broth and chicken broth?
In this article, we'll explore the benefits of chicken broth and how it can support your overall health. Whether you prefer to make homemade chicken broth or purchase it from the grocery store, we'll show you how to incorporate this helpful food into your diet.
Broth vs. Bone Broth: What’s the Difference?
First, what is bone broth? Many people use the terms chicken broth and bone broth interchangeably. However, there are some key differences between the two. While both are made with chicken bones, there are some significant differences in their preparation and the benefits they provide.
Chicken broth is typically made by simmering chicken meat and bones with vegetables and herbs for a shorter period. On the other hand, bone broth is made by simmering animal bones, connective tissue, and ligaments in a large pot for an extended period of time.
Apple cider vinegar is often added to bone broth, which is simmered for eight to 24 hours. This allows the larger bones and cartilage to break down into collagen and helps to extract the nutrients from the bones.
While chicken broth is an excellent source of protein and nutrients, chicken bone broth is even more nutrient-dense. It contains high amounts of amino acids and nutrients, such as:
- Proline
- Glycine
- Collagen
- Magnesium
- Glucosamine
- Glutamine
- Selenium
- Phosphorus
- Chondroitin
- Fatty acids
So, whether you sip on store-bought chicken broth or make your chicken bone broth, both can provide health benefits.
What Are the Health Benefits of Chicken Bone Broth?
Chicken bone broth is rich in various amino acids, electrolytes, and minerals that can offer several health benefits. These components can work together to support our body's overall health, specifically in the digestive system, skin, and sleep quality. If you start drinking bone broth, it won’t be long before you notice a difference!
Let’s explore some specific health benefits of bone broth.
Supports the Digestive System
When it comes to supporting digestive health, chicken bone broth is a star player. The collagen, gelatin, and glycine in bone broth are the building blocks of protein, and the body can use them to make more protein wherever it needs it. They can also help support the gut lining and digestive tract.
This means that regularly drinking bone broth may help support dietary nutrient absorption, gut health, and the gut microbiome. As a bonus, this can also help support the immune system.
Promotes Sound Sleep
Bone broth contains the amino acid glycine, which can promote relaxation and sleep quality. Glycine works as an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain, supporting a sense of calmness.
It can also help regulate core body temperature, which is essential for a good night's sleep. No one likes to be too hot or cold when they’re trying to fall asleep, after all. Additionally, bone broth contains magnesium, which can support good sleep quality.
Supports Younger-Looking Skin
Chicken bone broth also contains collagen, a key component of healthy skin. Collagen supports skin elasticity, potentially minimizing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. The gelatin in bone broth can also help to plump and hydrate the skin, giving it a more youthful and radiant appearance.
Promotes Hydration
Electrolytes are minerals that help balance the fluids in your body, regulate your heartbeat, and support muscle and nerve function. There’s no need to guzzle down sugary drinks to get your electrolytes, though — chicken bone broth with sea salt is an excellent source of electrolytes such as potassium, sodium, and magnesium.
Additionally, consuming foods or beverages high in electrolytes can be helpful after exercise or physical activity because they can help replace any fluids lost through sweating. Just try drinking a cup of bone broth after your next workout, and you’ll see what we mean!
Encourages Weight Loss
You're probably wondering, “How exactly does bone broth encourage weight loss?” Well, there are actually several factors at play.
First, irritation in the body can contribute to weight gain and other health problems. Luckily, bone broth contains compounds that can help soothe irritation.
As we mentioned earlier, bone broth can also support gut health. That support is crucial for weight loss because an unhealthy gut can contribute to weight gain and other health issues.
Supporting detoxification can also help with weight loss. Bone broth contains amino acids such as glutamine and glycine, which can help aid the liver with your body’s natural detoxification processes.
Dr. Kellyann's 21-Day Bone Broth Diet is a popular program that utilizes the power of bone broth to help with weight loss. This diet plan involves incorporating bone broth into your daily meals for three weeks while following specific diet guidelines designed to help you see results.
In addition to these, the 21-Day Bone Broth Diet includes specific guidelines for meal planning, including incorporating healthy fats and proteins, limiting processed foods and sugars, and consuming plenty of vegetables.
Of course, bone broth is no substitute for professional medical advice. If you have a medical condition or health concerns that are affecting your daily life, we recommend speaking to a doctor right away.
How Can You Use Chicken Bone Broth in Cooking?
Chicken bone broth is a versatile ingredient in various recipes that can easily add flavor and nutrition. You can make your chicken bone broth at home with a slow cooker or Instant Pot, or you can opt for a convenient pre-made option, like Dr. Kellyann's Chicken Bone Broth Liquid.
Here are some ways you can use chicken bone broth in your cooking:
- As a base for soups and stews (we love chicken noodle soup with bone broth!)
- As a replacement for water to add flavor and nutrition
- Drinking bone broth as a nourishing hot beverage
- As a base for sauces and gravies
- To add moisture to leftovers when reheating
- As a substitute for coffee or tea in the morning
So, whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, incorporating chicken bone broth into your cooking can help you get one step closer to your health goals.
The Bottom Line
Chicken bone broth is a nutritious, flavorful, and versatile ingredient that can add health benefits to your favorite recipes. It's a rich source of collagen, protein, minerals, and vitamins that can support digestive health, sleep quality, hydration, weight loss, and more.
Whether you make bone broth at home or use a high-quality product like Dr. Kellyann's Chicken Bone Broth Liquid, incorporating this nutrient-dense drink into your diet can help you easily (and deliciously) support your health. Cheers to good health and happy cooking with chicken bone broth!
Sources:
The Importance of Magnesium in Clinical Healthcare | National Library of Medicine
