What Happens to Your Body When You Consume Bone Broth
Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Bone broth, made by simmering bones for extended periods, is rich in nutrients like collagen and minerals.
- It is consumed for its benefits to the digestive system, joints, and skin.
- The broth is low in calories and can be prepared with various meats, requiring 8-12 hours of cooking.
Bone broth, a seemingly simple liquid, offers a wealth of nutrients for the body, most notably proteins like collagen. Originally conceived as a way to utilize leftover meat products, this preparation is now sought after for its positive effects on the digestive system, joint health, and even skin condition.
The prolonged simmering process at high temperatures is key to bone broth's nutritional value, allowing proteins and minerals to be released. For optimal results, recipes recommend using cuts of meat that include both bone and cartilage, such as beef shank, knuckle, marrow bones, ribs, or veal knuckles. The broth's naturally slightly salty flavor can be enhanced with vegetables like carrots, squash, cilantro, and onion for a more balanced profile.
The intestinal lining can weaken over time. However, the consumption of this preparation can keep it in good condition.
According to dietitian Julia Zumpano of the Cleveland Clinic's Center for Human Nutrition, bone broth can help maintain a healthy intestinal lining, which may weaken over time. The minerals and amino acids present in the broth also play a role in immune system processes, potentially boosting the body's defenses. Furthermore, its electrolyte content supports muscle and nerve function, as these minerals are crucial for muscle contraction and nerve signal transmission.
The consumption of bone broth is frequently linked to improved cartilage health and joint mobility, attributed to its collagen content. This protein is essential for ligaments, and the broth also provides hyaluronan and chondroitin sulfate, beneficial for maintaining strong and resilient bones. Nutritionally, bone broth is low in calories, typically ranging from 35 to 50 per 240 ml serving, and also low in protein.
Its electrolyte content can be useful for the functioning of muscles and nerves, as these minerals participate in processes related to muscle contraction and the transmission of nerve signals.
Originally published by El Universal in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.