Benefits of Bone Broth

In the past I have mentioned how tasty homemade bone broth is, but while a new batch of turkey bone broth has simmered all day in my crock pot, I realized I've never done a post exclusively on the benefits of bone broth. So let me rectify that because this is something that should be part of everyone's diet.

Bone broth contains important vitamins and minerals because they are leached out into the broth from the bone marrow during cooking. In an informative and extensive article, Dr. Daniel of the Weston A. Price Foundation writes:

"Many studies now confirm what Grandma always knew--that broth made from bones is a great remedy, a tonic for the sick, a strengthener for athletes, a digestive aid, a healing elixir. And unlike bitter medicines, broth can be incorporated into delicious soups, stews and sauces.

"The substitute for broth is MSG, which food manufacturers use to achieve the taste of meat in canned and dehydrated soups and in imitation sauces. MSG is toxic to the nervous system but broth--rich in calcium--is protective. One of the most important things you can do to improve your health is to use real broth and avoid imitation foods."

Dr. Daniel's article explains the roles that proline, glycine, and gelatin play in keeping our bodies healthy, repairing damage, aiding digestion, and boosting the immune system. Bone broth contains all of these nutrients and others, and is one of the best sources of usable calcium.

I love knowing all this stuff when I'm eating a delicious dish that includes bone broth, but what I love most about making my own broth is knowing how natural it is, how irreplaceably delicious it is, and how I am using all of the animal I possibly can.