Hi Jimi!
Bone broth is nothing new. It’s one of the world’s oldest whole foods, and has been used by cultures all over the world.
Why might you want to consider using this food?
The idea is that by simmering bones and connective tissues for many hours (even days), nutrients are released into the water.
I eat a 95%+ plant-based diet, though I do make a few exceptions.
The truth is,
many people who eat plant-based diets have dental troubles. And I’m not exempt from this reality.
Bone broth helps maintain
healthy bones and
healthy teeth. And strong connective tissue, too.
6 healing nutrients found in bone broth:
Some of these you’ve probably heard of, but some of them probably not.
- Protein. Drinking bone broth can be a very satisfying, filling drink.
- Collagen. This protein, essentially, acts as the “glue” that holds us together. It provides structure and protection for tissues and joints; building blocks for hair, skin, and teeth; and it’s key for healthy digestion. But, over time, our bodies lose the ability to make collagen (hello, wrinkles and arthritis!).
- Gelatin. Has the same nutritional properties as collagen, but it’s processed differently by the body. Essential for skin health, and the “skin” of your intestinal tract. Can help repair leaky gut, improve digestion, and quiet inflammation. Bone broth is a very quality source, unlike Jell-O or any form of commercial gelatin.
- Glycine. An amino acid with many important functions. A building block of collagen and muscle tissue (important for lean muscle as you age). Also strengthens digestion, and is key in our bodies’ ability to convert nutrients to energy for our cells.
- Proline. Raises metabolism and plays an important role in reducing your heart attack risk. Also works with glycine to repair soft tissue in the digestive tract.
- Minerals. Depending on the quality and source, bone broth can have a profile of minerals, like phosphorous, calcium, potassium, iron, zinc, and selenium.
Bone broth could be the
MISSING LINK for many plant-based eaters.
But making your own can be a hassle — and it’s smelly! I did it ONCE, and it took forever and stunk up the house.
That’s why bone broth can be so useful and so easy. But then, you have a new problem: However do you choose from the abundance of options?
How to choose a quality bone broth (why organic ISN’T what you want to look for)
Get this:
grass-fed is more important than organic when it comes to bone broth. In fact, in this instance, you don’t necessarily want an organic label.
Why? Because an “organic” cow or chicken must be fed organic feed to get the USDA certification. But… cows are supposed to graze on grass, not certified “feed.”
So, you want to look for “grass-fed” sources.
And, here’s another important tip:
If you want to add bone broth to your diet,
don’t treat it like a magic pill.
Bone broth would be one arrow in your quiver. Add it to a healthy diet. You don’t want to eat a crap, Standard American Diet and mix in some bone broth, and think you’re golden.
I hope this helps you decide if bone broth is right for you and your family, and how to choose a product if you decide you want to.