The Ultimate Guide to Bone Broth: Glow-Boosting Benefits for Skin, Gut, and Immunity

As we are in the thick of the colder, damper weather, our bodies crave warmer liquids and foods. As I write this blog, my bone broth is simmering on the stove. Making bone broth is so simple that it can easily become a habit. This would be a great ritual for your family as it has so many immune-boosting benefits.

 

Broth is not new. It is an ancient food that many cultures have been using for years. I am sure that if you mention it to your grandmother, she will tell you that she had a pot brewing all the time. With many things, what was once old is so-called “new again.”

 

Besides being a source of bio-available nutrients in an easy-to-digest form, the amino acid structure and high gelatin content make bone broth soothing and healing for the gut.

 

Bone broth supports hair, skin, nails, and joints because it contains the amino acids needed for collagen production. As we age, we lose collagen, which is necessary for smooth and firm skin and reducing wrinkles. Gelatin helps to strengthen hair and nails.

 

Most importantly, broth is an excellent source of essential amino acids that are quite difficult to get from diet alone.

 

Proline helps the body break down proteins and improves skin elasticity. It also benefits the heart by keeping arteries supple.

 

Glycine is necessary for DNA and RNA synthesis and digestive health. It is also used to produce glutathione, which helps regulate blood sugar. Glycine also regulates the secretion of Human Growth Hormones.

 

Arginine is helpful for proper kidney function and wound healing.

 

Glutamine is well known for its role in gut health. L-glutamine helps repair damage to the gut lining.

 

You can use the bones of beef, chicken, fish, or any other animal. If using beef, it is often recommended to roast the bones first. Although numerous companies now sell bone broth, it is best and safest to make it yourself. It is so easy!

 

I usually use a chicken carcass. I place it in a 5 qt steel pot and fill it with water. I like to add a couple of tablespoons of apple cider vinegar and let it sit for about 30 minutes before bringing it to a boil. This tends to draw out more nutrients from the bones. Once boiling, I reduce the temperature to simmer, cover it, and allow it to simmer for at least 24 hours. You can always add whatever vegetables you have in the fridge for the last hour to add flavour. You may add your favourite spices at the end as well.

 

Broth can last in the fridge for approximately 3-5 days, and then you may freeze it. Admittedly, it never lasts that long in my house, so I cannot guarantee the same flavour once frozen.

 

You can drink broth as much as you like. There is no such thing as too much broth, as it is so comforting and soothing to your gut microbiome.

 

Until next time,

 

Frances