How I remember the days when I would visit my grandma any time of the year and she would have a pot simmering away on the stove for hours. The aroma filling the kitchen with hints of onion and garlic, as she placed in front of me noodle or dumpling soup. The warmth filling my soul, while the flavours were on a whole other level. Grandma I would say, "this is so good?" And her response would always be "I made slowly with love, good things take time."
Bone broth is not a new discovery as well all know. How many times have you heard when you are sick that you should make a big batch of chicken soup? Some may still believe this is a myth, yet there are numerous studies showing that broth made from bones do have numerous benefits. The collagen, various vitamins and nutrients in broth has earned the name 'liquid gold'.
Broth is made primarily from just bones and meat beef, chicken, pork and even fish, and few vegetables. Stock on the other hand will incorporate more vegetables. They are ultimately the same thing broth is cooked for extended period of times and often vinegar has been said to be added to draw more nutrients and gelatin out of the bones. The exact amount and type of nutrients and minerals that you will receive in broth will depend on the added items in the soup (ie. carrots, onions, garlic. greens) while it cooks. According to Jerlyn Jones, M.S., M.P.A., RDN, a spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics 'animal bones are rich in calcium, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus and other trace minerals—the same minerals needed to build and strengthen your own bones'. By drawing out all these nutrients from the bones and whatever other ingredients you add, it is likely that we will reap the benefits.
While research is still ongoing and has been for years with no definite answers if the following are actually benefits. All I can say is that I trust what my grandmother and generations before have said about bone broth. The belief that it is full of what you need to heal and nourish the body. Everything in moderation and it may not be a cure but I know that it can't hurt to add a little bone broth into your diet. Just remember to always get well sourced organic pasture raised animal bones so that you get the most out of them without all the hidden ingredients.
The Health Benefits of Bone Broth
Aids with gut healing, supports bone and joint health, and tissue healing and repair because of the gelatin that is released from the bones and other collagen rich part as it simmers for hours.
Supports the nervous system and may help strengthen hair and nails as it is rich in calcium, magnesium, silicon, sulphur and other trace minerals.
Supports joint and cartilage health because there of the the chondroitin, sulphates, glucosamine and collagen within the bones. It won't cure joint issues but like other proteins collagen is broken down into amino acids, which become building blocks for body tissues.
Gut healing and digestion benefit because our bodies can digest and absorb vital nutrients, vitamins and minerals easily.
Remedies the common colds thanks to anti-inflammatory properties that research has shown. Also studies show that it is said to clear nasal passages much more effectively than hot water or flushes.
Thyroid function and metabolism can benefit thanks to iodine gained from fish bone broth.
The broth and its added ingredients should be simmered for hours, the longer the better so that you can get all the benefits. The longer you simmer the more gelatinous it will become and the the flavours will be bolder. Strain your ingredients and pour into mason jars so that you can enjoy it in your favourite mug. There is nothing better than making your own broth and remember to always put in the very best ingredients, organic and pasture raised bones as well as organic vegetables.
Check out how to make your super power bone broth in the Recipe section!
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