Is Bone Broth Safe to Drink Daily? A Comprehensive Guide

December 21, 2025 •

2 min read

According to MD Anderson Cancer Center, while generally safe, consuming large amounts of bone broth can lead to an increased intake of heavy metals that may have leached from the bones during cooking. Given this, the question arises: is bone broth safe to drink daily? The answer depends heavily on factors like bone quality, preparation method, and individual health concerns, demanding a closer look at the facts.

Quick Summary

Generally safe in moderation, daily bone broth consumption presents potential risks related to high sodium content and heavy metal contamination, though some studies suggest these levels are minimal. Benefits include protein, collagen, and mineral intake, but individual health conditions must be considered.

Key Points

Moderate Daily Intake is Key: For most healthy adults, drinking 1-2 cups of high-quality bone broth daily is considered safe and beneficial for overall wellness.
Watch for Sodium: Many commercial broths are high in sodium, which can be a risk for those with certain health conditions like high blood pressure; choose low-sodium options or make your own.
Be Mindful of Heavy Metals: There's a low risk of heavy metal contamination from animal bones, though levels are typically minimal and depend on the bone source; using high-quality, pasture-raised bones can help mitigate this.
Sourcing Matters: The nutritional content and safety of bone broth heavily depend on the quality of bones and ingredients used, favoring organic and grass-fed sources.
Nutrient Levels are Variable: While rich in compounds like collagen and amino acids, the exact nutrient content is inconsistent and less reliable than dedicated supplements for specific health goals.
Consult a Professional: Individuals with pre-existing health conditions should consult a doctor or dietitian before starting a daily bone broth regimen.
Use as a Supplement: Bone broth should be seen as a supportive supplement to a balanced diet, not a standalone cure-all for health issues.

Understanding Bone Broth: Composition and Variability

Bone broth is made by simmering animal bones and connective tissues, often with vegetables, to extract nutrients like collagen, amino acids, and minerals. Its exact composition varies greatly depending on ingredients and preparation, making consistent nutrient levels hard to guarantee.

Potential Risks of Daily Bone Broth Consumption

While moderate consumption is generally safe, daily intake can pose risks:

High Sodium: Many commercial broths contain significant sodium, potentially problematic for those with high blood pressure or heart conditions. Choosing low-sodium options or making homemade broth helps control intake.
Heavy Metal Concerns: There is a potential for lead and cadmium to leach from bones during cooking. Studies show varying results, but levels are often below safety thresholds. Sourcing quality bones can mitigate this risk.
Inconsistent Nutrient Levels: The amount of beneficial compounds can vary, making bone broth an unreliable primary source for daily nutritional needs.
Allergies and Sensitivities: Store-bought broths may contain additives causing reactions. Always check labels.

Benefits of Including Bone Broth in Your Daily Diet

When prepared properly, daily bone broth offers several benefits:

Hydration and Protein: Provides water, electrolytes, and protein.
Gut Health Support: Gelatin and amino acids may aid digestion and strengthen the gut lining.
Joint and Skin Health: Compounds like collagen may support joints and skin elasticity.
Anti-inflammatory Effects: Contains compounds like glycine with potential anti-inflammatory properties.

Comparing Homemade vs. Store-Bought Bone Broth


Feature	Homemade Bone Broth	Store-Bought Bone Broth
Control over Ingredients	Full control over sourcing and additives.	Limited control; depends on brand.
Sodium Content	Easily customized.	Often high; requires label check.
Heavy Metal Risk	Depends on bone quality.	Varies by brand; transparency differs.
Cost	Generally less expensive.	Can be more expensive.
Convenience	Time-consuming preparation.	Convenient and ready-to-use.
Nutrient Variability	Inconsistent content depending on method and bones.	Label provides info, but content can still vary.

Safe Consumption and Conclusion

Daily moderate bone broth (1-2 cups) is typically safe for healthy adults. Those with health conditions should consult a doctor. Best practices include using high-quality ingredients, monitoring sodium, and viewing it as a dietary supplement. Listen to your body and consult professionals if needed. The safety depends on personal health, sourcing, and overall diet. For more information, you can refer to resources like the National Institutes of Health.

How to Safely Incorporate Bone Broth

Ways to include bone broth daily:

Sipping a warm cup.
Using it as a base for cooking.
Adding concentrate or powder to smoothies.
Cooking grains with it.

Conclusion

Drinking moderate amounts of high-quality bone broth daily is generally safe and potentially beneficial for many people, supporting gut health, hydration, and joints. Key considerations are managing sodium intake and minimizing potential heavy metal exposure through quality sourcing. Bone broth should supplement, not replace, a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

For most healthy individuals, a moderate intake of 1 to 2 cups of bone broth per day is generally considered safe and beneficial. However, some individuals with specific health goals might consume more, and it is best to consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.

While animal bones can accumulate heavy metals like lead, studies have shown that the levels in bone broth, both homemade and commercial, are typically minimal and fall below regulatory safety limits. Sourcing high-quality, pasture-raised bones and consuming broth in moderation can further minimize this risk.

Homemade bone broth gives you complete control over ingredients, including salt content and bone quality, often resulting in lower sodium levels. Store-bought versions can be high in sodium and may use lower-quality bones, though some premium brands offer high-quality, organic products.

If you have high blood pressure, you should be mindful of the sodium content in bone broth. It is recommended to choose low-sodium or unsalted varieties and consult with a doctor or dietitian to ensure it fits safely within your dietary needs.

Daily bone broth consumption may support gut health through its gelatin and amino acid content, particularly glutamine, which helps fortify the intestinal lining. However, it should be part of a comprehensive gut-healthy diet and not relied upon as a sole treatment.

Bone broth contains collagen, gelatin, and amino acids that are thought to support joint and skin health. While anecdotal evidence is strong, more scientific research is needed to confirm the effectiveness of consuming broth alone versus other forms of supplementation for these specific benefits.

Drinking too much bone broth can lead to an excessive intake of sodium, which poses risks for some individuals. It can also result in potentially higher heavy metal exposure, although research indicates this risk is low with moderate consumption. Overconsumption can also be a nutritional concern, especially for children and pregnant women.