The benefits of bone broth

02 February 2023

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Various cultures around the world have been cooking bone broth for thousands of years. In fact, our ancestors started making bone broth out of necessity, as they were forced to find a way to consume the parts of the animal that were too hard to chew, but not suitable for cooking. manufacture of shelters or clothing.

Over 2,500 years ago, bone broth was used in Chinese medicine to support digestive health. Over time, it has become a staple of traditional Asian meals. Nowadays, it is frequently used as a base for many recipes.

In the 12th century, bone broth gained popularity and was nicknamed the "Jewish penicillin" after the famous physician Maimonides began prescribing chicken soup to his patients. He described it as “an excellent food as well as a medicine”.

The history of bone broth through the years shows that it has long maintained its reputation for its many health benefits and incredible taste. And that’s where much of its magic lies!

But what are the benefits of bone broth?

Preserves skin elasticity

Bone broth is a healthy addition to a balanced diet. Research indicates that it is the proteins in the broth that provide the main benefit to our health. These proteins are broken down into collagen. With 28 different types, collagen makes up about 30% of our body's proteins. It is necessary for many different types of tissues in the body.

For example, collagen contributes to the formation of elastin and other compounds in the skin that are responsible for maintaining skin tone, texture and appearance. In other words, it promotes the elasticity of firm and smooth skin. Additionally, collagen integrity is known to help reduce the visible signs of wrinkles, diminish puffiness, and combat various other signs of aging. This is precisely the main protein present in bone broth.

Many people also report a reduction in cellulite when they consume foods and supplements containing collagen, as cellulite forms due to a lack of connective tissue, allowing the skin to lose its firm tone.

Protects joints

As mentioned above, bone broth is one of the world's best sources of natural collagen. As we age, our joints naturally wear out and become less flexible. The cartilage diminishes because it is attacked by antibodies (age-related deterioration of articular cartilage). When bone broth simmers, the collagen from the animal parts seeps into the broth and becomes easily absorbable to help restore that cartilage.

Promotes gut health

Glycine is an amino acid that our bodies use to create proteins and makes up about a third of the structure of collagen. We especially need it for growth and to make important substances, like hormones and enzymes. Glutamine, on the other hand, is another important amino acid found in bone broth that supports a healthy immune system and intestinal lining.

Additionally, gelatin is one of the most valuable components of bone broth. Studies show that gelatin is beneficial for restoring the strength of the intestinal wall and combating food sensitivities (to dairy products, for example). It also promotes the growth of probiotics (good bacteria) in the gut and supports healthy inflammation levels in the digestive tract. A report published in the Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology states that gelatin effectively supports intestinal health and integrity and exhibits anti-inflammatory effects. All of these amino acids and components present in bone broth play an important role for our gut health, plus bone broth is easy to digest and soothes the digestive system, unlike many other foods, which can be difficult to completely decompose. After all, a food is only truly useful if we have the means to absorb its nutrients.

Supports immune system function

As previously mentioned, one of the most remarkable aspects of bone broth is the support it provides to the intestines, which has an overall effect on the body and promotes the proper functioning of the immune system.

Leaky gut syndrome occurs when undigested particles from food seep through tiny openings in the weakened intestinal wall and enter the bloodstream. At this time, the immune system detects them and becomes hyperactive. This increases inflammation and leads to dysfunction in all areas. The immune system releases high levels of antibodies that attack healthy tissue.

Bone broth is one of the most beneficial foods to consume to restore gut health and therefore support immune system function and promote a healthy response to inflammation. Collagen, gelatin, and certain amino acids help seal these openings in the intestinal wall and support intestinal integrity.

Homemade Recipe - Grass-Fed Beef Bone Broth

According to Dr. Josh Axe, a board-certified doctor of natural medicine and clinical nutritionist, “To properly make homemade beef bone broth and get all the nutritional benefits, you need to get grass-fed beef bones off the shelf.” from local producers or in an online health food store. It's also important to purchase pasture-raised animal products that are free of added antibiotics and hormones in order to get the full benefits of bone broth. »

It's important to understand that most store-bought "broths" today are not bone broths or, in some cases, are not even made from animals. Instead, companies use lab-produced meat flavors in stock cubes, soups and sauce mixes. That's why it's best to buy the bones and cook a good homemade broth full of nutrients.

This homemade recipe is one of the best ways to reap all the benefits of beef bone broth. Plus, making beef bone broth is much easier than you think and is much healthier than store-bought versions. Check out our grass-fed beef bones on our online store to whip up the recipe below!

INGREDIENTS FOR HOMEMADE BONE BROT RECIPE

4 pounds grass-fed beef bones with marrow
4 carrots, chopped
4 stalks of celery, cut into pieces
2 medium-sized onions, peeled, halved lengthwise and quartered
4 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed
½ teaspoon sea salt
1 teaspoon whole peppercorns
2 bay leaves
3 sprigs of fresh thyme
6 sprigs of parsley
¼ cup apple cider vinegar
20 cups of cold water

HOMEMADE BONE BROT RECIPE INSTRUCTIONS

Place all ingredients in a 10-quart slow cooker or large pot on the stove.
Add the water.
Turn on the slow cooker and prepare to cook for at least 36 hours, which could mean 3 cycles on the standard slow cooker which has a maximum setting of 12 hours (unless you can set your slow cooker for 36 hours).
If cooking on the stove, bring the large pot to a boil over high heat; reduce and leave to simmer gently.
In the slow cooker or pot, occasionally skim off the fat that rises to the surface.
Simmer for 36 to 48 hours.
Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Discard the solids and strain the remainder into a bowl through a strainer. Let the broth cool to room temperature, cover and refrigerate.
Refrigerate and use within a week. Or freeze for up to 3 months.