
In a world of trendy superfoods and expensive supplements, bone broth has remained a tried-and-true staple for centuries. Whether you’re sipping it for gut health, joint support, or just a warm, soothing boost of nutrients, bone broth is a natural, powerful addition to any wellness routine. Being someone that constantly suffers from digestive issues, bone broth has become a continual savior for me and my digestive health. It is an easy way to calm my stomach, provide protein to my body and other much needed nutrients that truly help you get back to normal when you are not feeling well. I call it the “New” chicken noodle soup! No matter what you are dealing with, fever, flu, virus… bone broth helps!
Let’s explore the top benefits of bone broth, and then we’ll walk you through a simple, healthy recipe you can make at home.
What Is Bone Broth?
Bone broth is a nutrient-rich stock made by simmering bones and connective tissue from chicken, beef, or fish for an extended period of time (typically 12 to 24 hours). The slow simmering process draws out collagen, minerals, amino acids, and other valuable nutrients that support overall health.
Unlike regular broth or stock, bone broth is simmered longer and often includes vinegar to help extract nutrients from the bones.
Top Health Benefits of Bone Broth
1. Supports Joint Health
Bone broth is rich in collagen, gelatin, and amino acids like glycine and proline—essential for cartilage repair and joint lubrication. Regular consumption can help reduce joint pain and stiffness.
2. Improves Gut Health
The gelatin in bone broth helps seal the gut lining and supports a healthy digestive tract. It’s especially beneficial for people with leaky gut syndrome, IBS, or general digestive issues.
3. Boosts Skin, Hair, and Nail Health
Collagen promotes elastic, hydrated skin, stronger nails, and shinier hair. Bone broth offers a natural way to support beauty from within—no expensive serums required.
4. Strengthens the Immune System
Thanks to its rich mineral content (like zinc, magnesium, and calcium) and anti-inflammatory amino acids, bone broth can help boost your immune system, making it a great go-to during cold and flu season.
5. Promotes Better Sleep and Brain Function
Bone broth contains glycine, an amino acid that has been shown to improve sleep quality, reduce anxiety, and support cognitive function.
Easy Homemade Bone Broth Recipe (Slow Cooker or Stove)
Making bone broth at home is surprisingly easy—and much more affordable than store-bought versions.
✅ Ingredients:
- 2–3 lbs of bones (chicken, beef, turkey, or a mix – preferably with joints or marrow)
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar (helps extract nutrients)
- 1 large onion, quartered
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, smashed
- 1–2 bay leaves
- 1 tbsp peppercorns
- Herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary (optional)
- Filtered water to cover
- Sea salt to taste (add at the end)
For extra richness, roast the bones in the oven at 400°F for 30 minutes before adding them to your pot.
Instructions:
👉 Stovetop or Slow Cooker Method:
- Add bones to a large stockpot or slow cooker.
- Pour in enough filtered water to cover the bones completely.
- Add vinegar and let it sit for 30 minutes (helps with mineral extraction).
- Add veggies, herbs, and spices.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer gently:
- Chicken bones: 12–18 hours
- Beef bones: 18–24+ hours
- Skim any foam/scum off the top during the first hour of cooking.
- Once finished, strain the broth through a fine mesh sieve.
- Let cool, then store in jars in the fridge (up to 5 days) or freeze for later (up to 3 months).
You’ll know it’s good when it gels like Jell-O in the fridge—that’s the collagen at work!
How to Use Bone Broth:
- Sip a warm mug on its own (great for mornings or pre-bedtime)
- Use it as a base for soups or stews
- Cook grains like rice or quinoa in it for added flavor
- Add it to smoothies (yes, really—just a few spoonfuls!)
- Freeze into cubes for quick access
Bonus Tips:
- Look for grass-fed, organic bones when possible (your local butcher or farmer’s market is a great source)
- Save bones from roasted chickens or leftover meals
- Add a handful of fresh herbs toward the end for flavor and added health benefits
Bone broth is more than just a wellness trend—it’s a time-tested healing food that supports digestion, skin, joints, immunity, and more. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create your own batch of rich, restorative bone brothright at home.
Whether you’re sipping it for comfort or using it in your favorite recipes, bone broth is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to nourish your body from the inside out.
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