Bone Broth: What It Does to Your Body
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Bone broth offers a range of health benefits, from reducing inflammation and improving gut health to providing neuroprotective effects and aiding in pain management. Its ability to enhance the palatability of low-salt diets further adds to its appeal as a functional food. As research continues to uncover the various ways in which bone broth can impact health, it remains a valuable addition to a balanced diet.
Bone broth has been a staple in many cultures for centuries, often touted for its health benefits. Recent scientific research has begun to uncover the specific ways in which bone broth can impact the body. This article explores the various effects of bone broth on health, supported by findings from multiple studies.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
One of the most significant benefits of bone broth is its anti-inflammatory properties. A study investigating the effects of bone broth on ulcerative colitis (UC) in mice found that bone broth significantly reduced histological damage and decreased the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α. Additionally, it increased the expression of anti-inflammatory cytokines like INF-γ, IL-4, and IL-10, suggesting that bone broth can help manage inflammatory conditions1.
Gut Health and Microbiota Regulation
Bone broth also appears to have a positive impact on gut health. Research on the effects of nanoparticles isolated from porcine bone soup showed that these particles could ameliorate colitis symptoms in mice and restore intestinal microbiota balance. The study found that bone broth increased the diversity and richness of gut microbiota, promoting beneficial bacteria such as Muribaculaceae, Alistipes, and Alloprevotella, while reducing harmful bacteria like Helicobacter2.
Neuroprotective Effects
Bone broth may also offer neuroprotective benefits, particularly in the context of stress-induced conditions like migraines. A study on the effects of enriched chicken bone broth in a model of migraine induced by early life stress found that bone broth supplementation reduced trigeminal nociception and sensitization. This suggests that bone broth could help mitigate the risk of developing migraines by providing neuroprotective activity3.
Interaction with Immune Cells
The interaction between bone broth and the immune system is another area of interest. A study examining the direct interaction of food-derived colloidal micro/nano-particles with oral macrophages found that these particles could be internalized by immune cells. This interaction helped mitigate oxidative stress and inflammation, indicating a potential new mode of food-body interaction that could benefit immune health4.
Pain and Inflammation Management
Bone broth has also been shown to reduce pain and inflammation associated with conditions like temporomandibular disorder (TMD). A study on the effects of enriched chicken bone broth found that it significantly reduced nociception and the expression of the pro-inflammatory protein kinase A (PKA) in a model of TMD caused by prolonged jaw opening. This suggests that bone broth could be a valuable nutraceutical supplement for managing inflammatory pain5.
Salt Reduction and Palatability
In addition to its health benefits, bone broth can also help reduce salt intake without compromising taste. A study on the influence of bone broth soup on saltiness and palatability found that adding bone broth to low-salt solutions improved their taste, making it easier for individuals to adhere to low-salt diets. This is particularly beneficial for hypertensive patients who need to reduce their salt intake for better health outcomes6.
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