How to Properly Drink Bone Broth? A Complete Guide to Preparation, Timing, and Flavor

November 28, 2025 •

3 min read

Historically used as a remedy for centuries, bone broth is now celebrated as a wellness superfood, rich in nutrients like collagen and amino acids. Learning how to properly drink bone broth can help you maximize its potential benefits for gut health, joint support, and overall well-being.

Quick Summary

This guide provides expert advice on preparing and consuming bone broth, covering heating methods, customizable flavors, and the best time of day to drink it for specific health goals.

Key Points

Heating Method: Gently simmer bone broth on the stovetop for better flavor and nutrient preservation compared to microwaving.
Flavor Customization: Enhance the taste with additions like herbs, spices, healthy fats, and a touch of acidity.
Strategic Timing: Drink bone broth in the morning for digestion and energy, mid-day for curbing cravings, or at night for better sleep.
Daily Integration: Use bone broth in soups, to cook grains, or in mashed vegetables to incorporate it beyond just sipping.
Source Quality: Homemade offers control and is cost-effective, while reputable store-bought brands provide convenience.
Serving Size: Start with a small serving (5-7oz) and gradually increase based on your needs.

The Art of Sipping: Heating and Serving

The simplest way to enjoy bone broth is to drink it warm from a mug. To preserve flavor and texture, simmering on the stovetop is recommended over microwaving, which can cause uneven heating and potential nutrient degradation. Aim for a gentle simmer, not a boil.

Heating Your Broth:

Stovetop: Pour broth into a saucepan and heat over medium-low heat until small bubbles form. This method is ideal for adding other ingredients.
Microwave (if necessary): Heat in a microwave-safe mug in 30-second intervals, stirring between, until warm. Avoid glass jars with foil accents.

Customizing Your Broth: Flavor Boosters for Every Palate

Adding extra ingredients can enhance flavor and target specific health goals.

Enhance your broth with these additions:

Aromatics: Add grated ginger and garlic for a zesty flavor. Sautéing onion and garlic first creates a richer base.
Acids: A splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon/lime juice brightens flavor and aids mineral extraction.
Spices and Herbs: Infuse with herbs like parsley, rosemary, and thyme. Add cayenne or red pepper flakes for heat, or turmeric and black pepper for anti-inflammatory benefits.
Healthy Fats: Stir in ghee, grass-fed butter, or coconut oil for richness and satiety. Blending with fat can create a frothy texture.
Umami Boosters: Miso paste, soy sauce, or dried mushrooms add deep, savory notes.

Timing Your Bone Broth Intake for Maximum Benefit

When you drink bone broth can influence the benefits you receive.


Timing	Primary Benefit	How to Do It
Morning	Gut Health & Energy	Drink on an empty stomach to stimulate digestion and provide sustained energy. Add lemon and ginger for a zingy start.
Mid-Day	Curbing Cravings	A warm cup can increase fullness and reduce cravings for snacks. Protein contributes to satiety.
Before Bed	Better Sleep	Glycine in bone broth may promote relaxation and improve sleep. Enjoy a calming cup before bed.
Post-Workout	Recovery	Protein and electrolytes help replenish nutrients and support muscle repair. A cold bone broth shake can be refreshing.

Incorporating Bone Broth into Your Daily Diet

Bone broth can be used in numerous recipes to enhance flavor and nutrition.

Soups and Stews: Use as a nutrient-dense base.
Grains: Cook rice or quinoa in broth instead of water.
Mashed Vegetables: Replace milk or water with broth.
Sauces and Gravies: Gelatin acts as a natural thickener.
Smoothies: Add powdered bone broth for protein and collagen.

Homemade vs. Store-Bought Bone Broth: A Comparison

Choosing between homemade and store-bought involves considering convenience, cost, and ingredient control.


Feature	Homemade Bone Broth	Store-Bought Bone Broth
Control over Ingredients	Complete control over sourcing and seasonings.	Minimal control; depends on manufacturer.
Cost	More cost-effective, especially with leftover bones.	Higher cost, varies by brand.
Convenience	Time-consuming (12-48 hours simmering). Can freeze large batches.	Highly convenient; ready to use. Available liquid or powdered.
Nutrient Density	Often richer in gelatin and nutrients depending on process.	Varies widely; cheaper options may have less collagen.
Flavor Customization	Can be seasoned during or after cooking.	Preset flavor, can be enhanced.

Conclusion: Making Bone Broth a Delicious Habit

Properly drinking bone broth involves preparation techniques, flavor customization, and strategic timing. Simmering on the stovetop and experimenting with additions can make it a delicious part of your routine. Consistency is key to reaping benefits like increased energy, better sleep, and improved digestion. For more on health benefits, see this guide from Healthline.

Choose high-quality sources, homemade or store-bought, and tailor your approach to your taste and health goals for long-term success.

Frequently Asked Questions

The ideal time depends on your goals. Morning is good for gut health and energy, mid-day helps curb cravings, and evening may promote better sleep.

Bone broth is low in calories and its protein and water content can promote fullness, potentially supporting weight management.

Enhance flavor with grated ginger/garlic, herbs (rosemary, thyme), spices (turmeric, cayenne), or a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice.

Store in the refrigerator for 5-7 days or freeze for up to 6 months. Freezing in smaller portions is convenient.

Many start with 5-7 ounces daily. For specific benefits, 2-4 cups may be recommended. Consistency is key.

While you can drink it cold, warming it on the stovetop is preferred for optimal taste.

Rich in protein, collagen, and amino acids, it may support gut health, joint mobility, skin, hair, nails, and sleep.