Is Bone Broth the Next Green Juice?

bone broth

Once a prehistoric mainstay, bone broth is now making way into the modern diet.

The elixir is taking its place among the green juice-loving crowd as the latest health trend with incredible health benefits. Learn why this potent drink made from animal bones may be the fountain of youth, vitality and longevity.

Bone broth is homemade stock made from animal bones. The key is to simmer the bones in water for at least 12 hours – the longer it simmers, the more nutritious the broth becomes. Unlike regular stock, which simmers for a few hours, bone broth can simmer for days. As it simmers, the hot water breaks down bones and connective tissues, such as proteins, minerals and fats, creating an elixir that is incredibly healing to the body.

Bone broth is rich in easily-absorbable minerals calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, silicon and sulphur, among others. It is known to improve connective tissue, strengthen the hair, accelerate hair and nail growth, improve digestion and remineralize teeth. It contains good amount of the amino acids proline, glycine, arginine and glutamine. Proline is necessary for DNA, RNA and protein synthesis in the body. Glycine moderates the synthesis of bile salts and the secretion of gastric acid, which means it is effective in improving digestion. Glycine also regulates blood sugar levels, enhances muscle repair and growth and improves the function of the nervous system. Arginine boosts immunity, heals wounds, produces and releases growth hormones, regenerates damaged liver cells and helps to produce sperm. Glutamine protects the gut lining, serves as metabolic fuel for cells in the small intestine, improves the metabolism and builds muscles.

Another healing compound found in bone broth is collagen. Collagen is a protein found in connective tissues, such as bone, marrow, cartilage, tendons and ligaments. When collagen is broken down in broth, it produces gelatin. Gelatin is commonly used as a medical treatment in many cultures. It has been shown to ease food allergies, protect and sooth the lining of the digestive tract, improve the body’s health bacteria balance, decrease the appearance of wrinkles, banish cellulite and reduce joint pain.

To benefit from bone broth, regularly make your own. Try out this classic bone broth recipe or, for the vegan out there, try out this plant-based version.

Related on EcoSalon

Eat Your Way to Health Bones…And Forget the Milk

Year-Round Locavore: Eat Local No Matter What The Season, 5 Tips From Meghan Boledovich at NYC’s PRINT

Sea Veggie Purification Broth

Bone Broth image via Shutterstock