Is Bone Broth Good for Type 2 Diabetes?
Managing Type 2 diabetes often involves making informed food choices that support overall health and help maintain stable blood glucose levels. If you've wondered whether bone broth is suitable for people living with Type 2 diabetes, you're not alone.
Bone broth has become increasingly popular as a warming, protein-rich drink and cooking ingredient. While it isn't a treatment or cure for diabetes, it may fit well into a balanced diet because it is naturally low in carbohydrates and contains protein.
In this guide, we'll explore what bone broth contains, what current evidence suggests, and what to consider when choosing a bone broth if you have Type 2 diabetes.
What Is Bone Broth?
Bone broth is made by slowly simmering bones, connective tissue and vegetables over many hours. This traditional cooking method extracts naturally occurring proteins, collagen, gelatin and flavour into the liquid.
A typical bone broth may contain:
- Naturally occurring protein
- Collagen
- Gelatin
- Amino acids
- Minerals in small amounts
- Water
The nutritional content varies depending on the recipe, cooking method and manufacturer.
Is Bone Broth Suitable for People with Type 2 Diabetes?
Bone broth can be included as part of a balanced diet for many people with Type 2 diabetes.
One reason is that traditional bone broth is typically:
- Low in carbohydrates
- Naturally free from added sugars (unless flavoured or sweetened)
- A source of protein
- Easy to enjoy on its own or in recipes
Unlike sugary drinks, most plain bone broths have very little effect on carbohydrate intake. However, everyone's nutritional needs are different, so it's important to choose products that fit your own dietary requirements.
Bone broth should not be considered a treatment for diabetes, and people with diabetes should continue to follow advice from their healthcare team.
Does Bone Broth Affect Blood Sugar?
Bone broth itself contains very little carbohydrate, meaning it is unlikely to have the same immediate impact on blood glucose as foods or drinks high in sugar or refined carbohydrates.
However, there is currently no strong clinical evidence that drinking bone broth lowers blood sugar or treats Type 2 diabetes.
Blood glucose levels are influenced by many factors, including:
- Overall diet
- Physical activity
- Medication
- Portion sizes
- Individual metabolism
Bone broth is best viewed as one food that may form part of an overall healthy eating pattern rather than a solution for managing diabetes.
Why Protein Can Be Helpful
Protein is an important nutrient for everyone, including people living with Type 2 diabetes.
Protein contributes to:
- Maintenance of muscle mass
- Maintenance of normal bones
Many people also find protein-containing foods satisfying, making them useful within balanced meals.
Traditional bone broth naturally contains protein extracted during the slow cooking process, although the exact amount varies between products.
What to Look for When Choosing Bone Broth
Homemade vs Dehydrated Bone Broth
Homemade bone broth is a traditional favourite, but it can take many hours to prepare.
Dehydrated bone broth offers a convenient alternative because the broth is first slow-cooked before the water is removed. This creates a shelf-stable powder that can simply be mixed with hot water or added to recipes.
As with any product, ingredient quality and nutritional values vary between manufacturers.
Ways to Enjoy Bone Broth
Many people use bone broth as:
- A warm savoury drink
- The base for soups
- A cooking liquid for rice
- A stock for casseroles
- A base for sauces
- Added to stews
These uses can add flavour while contributing protein to meals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is bone broth low in carbohydrates?
Most traditional bone broths contain very little carbohydrate, making them suitable for many lower-carbohydrate eating patterns.
Can people with Type 2 diabetes drink bone broth every day?
Bone broth can be enjoyed regularly as part of a balanced diet if it suits your nutritional needs. It's sensible to check the ingredients and nutrition label, particularly for sodium content.
Does bone broth cure diabetes?
No.
There is no evidence that bone broth cures Type 2 diabetes or replaces medical treatment.
Is beef or chicken bone broth better?
Both can be nutritious choices.
The best option depends on your taste preferences, nutritional needs and the ingredients used by the manufacturer.
Can bone broth replace a meal?
Bone broth is generally low in calories and is not usually intended to replace a balanced meal. Many people enjoy it alongside meals or use it as a cooking ingredient.
Final Thoughts
Bone broth can be a nourishing addition to many people's diets, including those living with Type 2 diabetes. Because it is naturally low in carbohydrates and contains protein, it may fit well within a balanced eating plan.
However, bone broth should not be viewed as a treatment for diabetes or as a substitute for medical advice. Managing Type 2 diabetes involves an overall healthy lifestyle, appropriate medication where prescribed and regular support from your healthcare team.
If you're choosing bone broth, look for products made with simple ingredients, no added sugar and a protein content that suits your dietary goals.