Answer:
That depends on your reason for consuming it.
Bone broth can be a good source of
protein and contribute substantially to your daily protein needs — although some will provide far more protein than others. Our tests of popular bone broths found the
amounts of total protein provided by a one-cup serving ranged from 3.8 grams to 17.6 grams, with the higher amount providing more than one quarter of the daily protein requirement for most adults.
Many people consume bone broth specifically for its
collagen content -- which is part of its total protein. Amounts of collagen in bone broths are rarely listed on labels and ConsumerLab found that some products contained
almost 5 times as much collagen as others, with amounts ranging from 2.5 grams to 11.5 grams. Be aware, however, that many of the benefits for which collagen is promoted, such as
reducing joint pain,
improving skin and reducing wrinkles, and
strengthening bones and
nails, are based on results of studies using specific forms of collagen from supplements, not bone broth. Even the evidence for the use of bone broth for
boosting the immune system or
improving gut health is
very preliminary. The amount of collagen used in clinical trials has ranged from 2.5 grams to 15 grams, with most studies using 10 to 15 grams, as explained in the
ConsumerTips section of our Bone Broth Review — which also explains
what to look for on labels when choosing a bone broth product.
Note that bone broth is
not generally a significant source of
vitamins and most minerals — although it can contain a substantial amount of
potassium. (Also, be aware some bone broths contain much higher
amounts of sodium than others — and ConsumerLab found one product contained much more sodium than listed on its label).
For more about the evidence for bone broth, tips for taking, and our
Top Picks based on taste and quality, see the
Bone Broth Supplements Review.
Anita17311
November 26, 2018I appreciate your research. I've been making my own bone broth - but now our Russian friends says it damages kidneys and is dangerous! Not sure what to believe.
Hi Anita - Please see the "Concerns and Cautions" section of the Bone Broth Review for information about bone broth and kidney disease: https://www.consumerlab.com/reviews/bone-broth-review/bone-broth/#cautions.