What is Chicken Broth Good For? The Surprising Health Benefits of This Pantry Staple

Chicken broth is a versatile and healthy ingredient that most of us likely have in our kitchens. But what exactly is chicken broth good for? As it turns out, there are quite a few science-backed benefits to using chicken broth, from improving immunity to aiding in weight loss. In this article, we’ll explore what chicken broth is, its many health benefits, and simple ways to incorporate it into your diet.

What is Chicken Broth?

Chicken broth is made by simmering chicken bones, meat, and vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery in water for an extended period. This long simmering time extracts nutrients and flavors from the ingredients, creating a tasty and nutritious liquid.

Chicken broth can be found pre-made in cans or cartons at the grocery store. However homemade broth has significantly higher nutrient levels compared to store-bought since commercial processing depletes some of the vitamins and minerals. It’s easy to make chicken broth at home with just a few simple ingredients.

7 Science-Backed Health Benefits of Chicken Broth

Here are some of the top researched-based benefits of incorporating chicken broth into your routine:

1. Supports Immune Function

Chicken broth contains amino acids like arginine and cysteine which help strengthen the immune system The minerals in the broth like zinc and selenium also boost immunity One study found chicken broth has antiviral properties that may be beneficial when recovering from an illness,

2. Improves Joint Health

The collagen and gelatin in chicken broth contribute glycosaminoglycans which support joint health and may reduce pain associated with arthritis. The glucosamine and chondroitin found in the broth are also beneficial for joints.

3. Promotes Gut Health

Chicken broth is easily digested and contains amino acids that help maintain the mucosal lining of the gut. This aids healthy digestion and may relieve symptoms of leaky gut syndrome. The collagen has also been found to reduce inflammation associated with digestive issues like irritable bowel disease.

4. Benefits Skin Health

Collagen is well-known for improving skin’s elasticity and reducing wrinkles and dryness. The amino acids in chicken broth also support the production of new skin cells.

5. Strengthens Bones

Chicken broth provides minerals like calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus which are necessary for building and maintaining strong bones. The collagen improves bone mineral density as well.

6. Aids Weight Loss

Chicken broth is low in calories, making it a great snack for curbing hunger between meals. Studies show soup broths can increase satiety before a meal, leading to reduced calorie intake.

7. Improves Sleep Quality

Chicken broth contains glycine, an amino acid that has been found to improve sleep quality and reduce fatigue. One study showed glycine helped participants fall asleep faster and sleep more soundly.

Simple Ways to Use Chicken Broth

Here are some easy and delicious ways to use up chicken broth:

• Drink it straight – Heat up a mug of broth for a soothing drink in the morning or evening.

• Use it in soups and stews – An easy way to boost nutrients and flavor.

• Cook grains like rice or quinoa in broth instead of water.

• Add it to sauces, gravies, and marinades for a flavor boost.

• Use it as a base for casseroles or when braising meats.

• Freeze broth in ice cube trays for easy use in meals later on.

• Saute veggies like spinach or kale in broth instead of oil.

• Make a broth popsicle with chicken broth and pureed veggies for a healthy snack.

Chicken Broth vs. Bone Broth

Bone broth has become popular in recent years as a superfood. So how does it compare to chicken broth?

Bone broth is made by simmering bones for 24+ hours to extract nutrients like collagen, amino acids, and minerals. This lengthy cooking time gives bone broth higher protein and mineral levels compared to chicken broth.

However, research has not found any evidence for many of the proclaimed health benefits of bone broth like arthritis relief or improved immunity. Both chicken and bone broth are healthy, mineral-rich ingredients. But chicken broth provides similar benefits without requiring lengthy cooking.

The Takeaway

Chicken broth is an often overlooked pantry staple that provides science-backed benefits for immunity, joint health, digestion, skin, bones, weight loss, and sleep. It’s budget-friendly, easy to make at home, and a tasty addition to many dishes. Consider keeping some chicken broth on hand and incorporating it into your routine to boost your overall health.