By now, you've probably heard about the growing popularity of bone broth, touted not just as a trendy beverage but also as a nourishing elixir for your body and spirit. Bone broth stands out as a rich source of bioavailable collagen, delivering this essential protein in a holistic "whole-food form." When properly prepared, bone broth's collagen content can support the restoration of your gut's mucosal lining, fostering intestinal tranquility, improved digestion, and reduced inflammation. With these remarkable benefits in mind, it's natural to wonder, "Can incorporating bone broth into your daily routine aid in weight loss?" We consulted an expert to spill the broth on this topic. Stay tuned to uncover more.
Can drinking bone broth every day help you lose weight?
Simply drinking bone broth on its own is unlikely to lead to weight loss. However, integrating it into a balanced diet can indeed support and enhance your weight loss journey.
According to Lena Bakovic, MS, RDN, CNSC, "When combined with a well-balanced diet which incorporates variety, moderation, and is calorically appropriate as based on an individual's specific nutrient requirements, [bone broth] can be useful in aiding weight loss." Bakovic adds, "Because of its generally higher protein content, consuming bone broth may help with a feeling of fullness or satisfaction after a meal, which in turn may work to prevent over-eating and alleviate sugar cravings. It is also a low-calorie food, which may be helpful for those requiring caloric deficits to achieve weight loss."
Moreover, due to its high water and electrolyte content, bone broth helps maintain hydration levels, further aiding in satiety and curbing unhealthy cravings or excessive eating.
Why should you add bone broth to your diet?
Bone broth can be a valuable addition to any nutritious diet, thanks to its electrolyte, water, and collagen protein content.
"Individuals with higher protein requirements or those who struggle to meet their hydration goals solely with water may find bone broth consumption particularly beneficial," elaborates Bakovic. "Bone broth typically contains higher protein levels compared to other broths, although the exact protein content can vary among brands. Therefore, it's advisable to review the Nutrition Facts Label to determine the protein content per serving, as with any packaged food item."
Another potential advantage of including bone broth in your diet is promoting healthy bones and joints. "[Bone broth] contains magnesium, phosphorus, and calcium, all of which are essential nutrients for bone density and strength," explains Bakovic. "The slow-cooking process used to prepare bone broth is believed to generate chondroitin and glucosamine, nutrients linked to enhanced joint health."