At its core, bone broth is really pretty simple. You create a batch by getting bones, connective tissue of animals, and inedible parts. Then, in a large pot, you simmer all of the ingredients in water until the collagen and nutrients sink into the liquid.
Essentially “bone broth” is just an alternative name for “stock,” the rich, flavorful liquid home cooks and chefs use to make sauces, soups, and tons of other stuff taste great.
The wellness community says that bone broth has many benefits: minerals, vitamins, collagen, and protein-rich amino acids, which is said to boost everything from skin vibrancy to joint health.
Actual research shows that bone broth is more about influencer-hype than about rigorously investigated information.
However, that doesn’t mean you need to empty your mug of bone broth just yet.
So even if bone broth does not lead to skin and major joint benefits, it does contain minerals, vitamins, and—if the recipe includes celery, carrots, garlic, and onions—disease-combating antioxidants.
So, go ahead, enjoy.
There are a lot of pre-made mainstream bone broth products you can find at grocers nation wide or online.
That said, the flavor—especially compared to bone broth from your local butcher or the type you make yourself—does not even remotely compare.
Want to try your culinary skills and make your own broth?
Head to your local butcher and ask them for animal bones, which is a perfect way to lower food waste and dump some money into your local economy for these otherwise inedible parts, which might normally get thrown away.
And remember, United States guidelines suggest minimum daily amounts for key minerals and vitamins. However, unless you need to boost your intake for certain ones because of a medical reason or deficiency, following a lot of numbers can be confusing.
A better approach to make sure you get the best variety of minerals and vitamins, and in the correct amounts, is to adopt a healthy diet. This involves a focus on vegetables and fruits, beans, whole grains and legumes, dairy products, and low-fat protein. The great news is that a lot of common foods have multiple vitamin and mineral sources, so it is simple to meet your daily needs from your normal daily meals.
Author: Scott Dowdy