Is Bone Broth Good for Heart Health? What the Evidence Says
Is Bone Broth Good for Heart Health?
Bone broth has become increasingly popular as a nourishing food, but many people wonder whether it is suitable for heart health. Questions such as "Is bone broth good for your heart?", "Does bone broth contain cholesterol?" and "Can people with heart conditions drink bone broth?" are searched thousands of times every year.
The answer isn't as straightforward as yes or no.
Bone broth can provide protein, collagen and naturally occurring minerals, but it should be viewed as one part of an overall balanced diet rather than a food that directly improves heart health. The nutritional content can also vary depending on how the broth is made and the ingredients used.
In this guide, we'll explore what bone broth contains, how it compares nutritionally, and what current research says.
What Is Bone Broth?
Can Bone Broth Be Part of a Heart-Healthy Diet?
For many people, bone broth can fit comfortably within a varied and balanced diet.
It is generally:
- High in protein
- Low in carbohydrates
- Filling despite relatively few calories
- Versatile enough to use in soups, sauces and cooking
However, heart health depends on your overall lifestyle and eating pattern rather than any single food. Factors such as regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, eating plenty of fruit and vegetables, limiting ultra-processed foods and managing blood pressure all play an important role.
Bone broth should therefore be viewed as a nutritious food choice rather than a treatment or preventative measure for heart disease.
Does Bone Broth Contain Cholesterol?
One of the most common questions people ask is whether bone broth contains cholesterol.
The answer is yes, although the amount varies considerably depending on the ingredients used and whether excess fat has been removed during cooking.
Compared with many cuts of fatty meat, bone broth is generally not considered a significant dietary source of cholesterol. Most commercially prepared broths contain relatively small amounts, but it's always worth checking the nutritional information on the label if this is something you monitor.
Is Bone Broth High in Sodium?
Sodium is another important consideration for anyone thinking about heart health.
Some bone broths contain relatively high levels of salt, while others contain much less. Homemade recipes also vary widely depending on how much salt is added.
If you're following a lower-sodium diet or have been advised to reduce your salt intake, look for products with clearly labelled nutritional information and compare sodium levels before purchasing.
What Does the Research Say?
Research specifically investigating bone broth and heart health is currently limited.
Bone broth provides protein, collagen and naturally occurring amino acids, but there is currently no high-quality evidence showing that drinking bone broth directly improves heart health or reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Instead, experts generally recommend focusing on an overall healthy dietary pattern that includes a variety of minimally processed foods.
Choosing a Quality Bone Broth
Not all bone broths are produced in the same way.
When comparing products, look for:
- Simple ingredient lists
- Clearly labelled nutritional information
- Traditional slow cooking methods
- No unnecessary fillers or artificial additives
- Protein content per serving
At British Broth Company, our dehydrated bone broths are traditionally slow cooked using British ingredients before being gently dehydrated for convenience, making them easy to store and prepare whenever you need them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is bone broth good for heart health?
Bone broth can be included as part of a balanced diet. However, there is currently no strong evidence that bone broth itself improves heart health or prevents heart disease.
Does bone broth have cholesterol?
Yes. Bone broth naturally contains small amounts of cholesterol, although the amount varies depending on how it is prepared.
Is bone broth high in sodium?
Some products are higher in sodium than others. Always check the nutrition label if you're monitoring your salt intake.
Can people with heart conditions drink bone broth?
Many people can include bone broth as part of a balanced diet, but anyone with a heart condition or specific dietary requirements should follow the advice of their healthcare professional.
Is homemade bone broth healthier than shop-bought?
Both can be nutritious. The nutritional content depends on the ingredients used, cooking method and the amount of added salt.
Final Thoughts
Bone broth is a traditional food that provides protein and naturally occurring collagen, making it a versatile addition to many meals. While current research does not support claims that bone broth directly improves heart health, it can be enjoyed as part of a varied, balanced diet alongside other healthy lifestyle choices.
If you're choosing bone broth, focus on quality ingredients, transparent nutritional information and products that fit your individual dietary needs.