The inclusion of bone broth in the diet has been placed on a tall pedestal related to its potent nutrients from the broth itself, along with the acclaimed health benefits that may stem from its use. But like all diets and health claims, one must tread with caution to ensure safety and even if it is worth your time and hard worked dollars. Here is what to look for when selecting bone broth and bone broth supplements, along with tips to ensure a suitable and high-quality product.
What Is Bone Broth? And What About Bone Broth Supplements?
Bone broth is simply some sort of animal bone, commonly beef or chicken, boiled and simmered with water. Veggies and herbs are regularly added to the broth, including garlic, onion, carrot, celery, and ground pepper. During the 24-hour plus simmering time, the bones unleash collagen and minerals that contribute to its promoted health benefits of hydration, anti-inflammation, bone support, digestive promotion, muscle growth, and skin health.
So when it comes to bone broth supplements, the broth is essentially dehydrated into a powder, packaged, and sealed. Consumers can then re-hydrate the broth with water or add to coffee, protein shakes, smoothies, juices, or any other food or drink desired. The supplements are mostly advertised as “bone broth protein” or “bone broth collagen,” while also commonly being presented as dairy-free, gluten-free, non-GMO, and paleo-friendly. Despite the appeal, it is important to recognize and acknowledge what you may be purchasing and brought into your kitchen.
What to Look for in Bone Broth and Bone Broth Supplements
Getting What You Pay for
Sometimes you truly get what you paid for, including when it comes to the quality of bone broth. Enjoying bone broth does not necessarily have to take a financial blow to your wallet, but a higher-grade product may mean forking out just a little bit more than others. Health food stores, local markets, and online are common suppliers and places to buy bone broth.
Looking at Ingredients
“Ingredients matter most” holds tremendous value, and it does not stop with selecting bone broth and supplements. Although a higher price may instigate a higher quality product, the unmatched value of an Ingredients label should not go overlooked. And with numerous producers out there, ingredients can be simple or even scarily multifaceted. While some manufacturers may provide a more natural product, including filtered water, organic chicken, and identifiable veggies and herbs, others may contain a laundry list of peculiar and unnecessary ingredients, including “natural flavors” and a number of “organic powders.”
Staying Level-Headed
Do not get trapped in gimmicks from advertisements, sellers, or even the product label itself. It is important to remember “gluten-free” or “paleo-friendly” claims are not synonymous with health. Though bone broth may contribute to a number of health benefits, especially if swapping out candy bars with the broth, sound and conclusive evidence still lacks surrounding supplements and powders. And remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it more than likely is!
Considering a Homemade Product
While you may want to leave the production of bone broth supplements to the experts, you can make a bone broth in the comfort of your own home! The only con to this is the waiting game, as a high-quality broth will pleasantly fragrant the kitchen. Despite the agonizing patience required during its prolonged simmering time, the rest of its production is simple and basic. The work on your end is minimal, requiring no more than 20 minutes of your personal time clock and a few basic ingredients (well, if you consider bones a household staple). But especially if trying to minimize the confusion of supplements, preparing your own bone broth can offer a peace of mind of just what ingredients you are using and consuming.