We can all agree that getting enough protein in our diet is a good thing. But is all protein created equal? There are many of different sources of this essential macronutrient and plenty of marketing claims of which is the best. In this article, we’ll delve into the numerous advantages of obtaining protein from bone broth, shedding light on why it has become a go-to source for medical professionals, athletes, and other health-conscious individuals.
This Brodo Benefits series is a part of our 30 Days of Brodo, which challenges you to drink Brodo for 30 days in a row in order to jumpstart your New Year with a healthy ritual. Find out more on our Instagram page and post your own story, tagging @brodo with #brodo30 to join other health-minded foodies!
A High-Quality Protein Source
Protein is a fundamental component of a healthy diet, essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting immune function, and maintaining muscle mass. Protein from bone broth offers unique benefits compared to muscle-based meat and plant-based sources.
Bone broth’s protein content primarily comes from collagen and gelatin, two forms of protein which are derived from connective tissues and bones. These complete proteins are bioavailable, meaning your body can easily absorb and utilize them. Collagen and gelatin are particularly rich in essential amino acids, such as proline, glycine, and arginine, which play vital roles in various physiological processes.
Supports Joint Health
Collagen, one of the primary proteins found in bone broth, is crucial for maintaining healthy joints and cartilage. As we age, our bodies naturally produce less collagen, which can lead to joint discomfort and reduced flexibility. Consuming bone broth can help replenish collagen levels, potentially reducing joint pain and promoting joint health.
Aids in Digestion
Gelatin, another prominent protein in bone broth, possesses gut-healing properties. It can help improve digestion by strengthening the gut lining and reducing inflammation. This may be especially beneficial for individuals with conditions like leaky gut syndrome or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Promotes Skin Health
Collagen promotes youthful and vibrant skin. By consuming bone broth, you provide your body with the building blocks it needs to maintain healthy skin. Collagen helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, promotes skin elasticity, and may even alleviate skin conditions like eczema and acne.
Supports Hair and Nail Growth
Collagen is not only beneficial for your skin but also for your hair and nails. Adequate collagen intake can lead to stronger, shinier hair and healthier nails. Incorporating bone broth into your diet may help combat issues like brittle nails and hair loss.
Aids Weight Management
Protein is well-known for its role in appetite control. Consuming protein-rich foods like bone broth instead of unhealthy snacks and sugary beverages can help you feel full and satisfied, potentially reducing overall calorie intake. This can be advantageous for those aiming to reduce bodyfat and build lean muscle.
Enhances Immune Function
Bone broth contains amino acids like arginine and glycine, which are important for immune system function. Glycine, in particular, has anti-inflammatory properties that can help modulate the immune response. Including bone broth in your diet may help strengthen your immune system and support overall health.
Brodo vs.
Now, let’s compare traditionally-made bone broth with other common protein sources:
- Meat and Poultry: While meat and poultry are excellent sources of protein, bone broth is rich in collagen and gelatin, two proteins derived from connective tissues and bones. This results in a unique amino acid profile, featuring amino acids like proline, glycine, and arginine. While muscle meat contains essential amino acids too, the composition of bone broth’s amino acids differs, offering distinct advantages for specific health needs.
- Plant-Based Proteins: Vegetarian and vegan sources of protein, like beans and tofu, lack collagen and gelatin. Bone broth can complement plant-based diets by providing essential amino acids and additional health benefits.
- Commercial Bone Broth: Other brands of bone broth are most often made by mixing a concentrate made by one of three food conglomerates with water, and then fortified with collagen powder. It’s scary stuff! Brodo is made with organic poultry and/or grassfed beef bones, simmered slowly the traditional way to extract all the flavor and nutrients from the meaty bones.
- Collagen Supplements: While whey protein supplements are convenient, they may not offer the same spectrum of benefits as bone broth, particularly in terms of joint and gut health.
Bone broth’s protein content, primarily consisting of collagen and gelatin, offers a wide range of benefits beyond being a tasty soup base. From promoting joint health and aiding digestion to enhancing skin, hair, and nail health, bone broth has earned its reputation as a nutritional powerhouse. Incorporating bone broth into your diet can be a simple and delicious way to reap these benefits and support your overall well-being. So, the next time you’re seeking a protein-rich addition to your diet, consider sipping on a warm cup of bone broth and enjoy the nourishing benefits it has to offer.
