Is Broth Good for Abdominal Pain? A Complete Nutrition Guide

October 18, 2025 •

4 min read

According to research, a large portion of the population experiences abdominal pain at any given time. For many, the question of whether is broth good for abdominal pain arises as they seek gentle, traditional remedies to ease digestive discomfort and support gut health during sensitive periods.

Quick Summary

Broth can be an excellent choice for abdominal pain due to its easy digestibility and hydrating properties. Rich in compounds like gelatin and amino acids, it helps repair the gut lining and reduce inflammation. For some with histamine sensitivities, however, certain types may cause issues.

Key Points

Gut Repair: Bone broth contains gelatin and collagen, which help heal and strengthen the intestinal lining, beneficial for 'leaky gut'.
Reduces Inflammation: Amino acids like glycine and glutamine in broth help decrease gut inflammation and fuel intestinal cells.
Aids Hydration: Rich in water and electrolytes like sodium and potassium, broth helps prevent dehydration, which can cause stomach pain.
Gentle on Digestion: Its liquid, warm nature makes broth easy for a sensitive stomach to tolerate, unlike heavier foods.
Beware of Histamine: Long-simmered bone broth can be high in histamine, which may cause symptoms like bloating and pain in sensitive individuals.
Listen to Your Body: While broth can be soothing, severe or chronic abdominal pain requires a doctor's evaluation to rule out serious conditions.

The Soothing Power of Broth for Digestive Relief

Broth, particularly bone broth, has been a staple in traditional medicine for centuries, revered for its nourishing and healing properties. Its reputation as a gentle food for an upset stomach is well-deserved, primarily due to its rich composition of easily digestible nutrients that support the gastrointestinal tract.

How Collagen and Gelatin Work to Heal the Gut

One of the most significant benefits of bone broth comes from its high content of collagen, which breaks down into gelatin when cooked. This gelatin is particularly beneficial for individuals with compromised gut integrity or conditions like "leaky gut syndrome". The gelatin helps to heal and strengthen the intestinal lining, reinforcing the gut barrier that protects the bloodstream from harmful substances. By promoting better gut integrity, broth can help reduce the inflammation and discomfort associated with many types of abdominal pain.

The Role of Amino Acids in Gut Repair

Broth contains vital amino acids that are crucial for repairing and maintaining the gut lining. Key amino acids include:

Glycine: This amino acid helps support the production of stomach acid, which is necessary for proper digestion, and also has anti-inflammatory effects. Glycine helps protect against ulcers and calms irritation in the digestive tract.
Glutamine: An important fuel source for the cells lining the intestines, glutamine is essential for cell regeneration and maintaining the integrity of the gut barrier.
Proline: Involved in collagen production, proline supports tissue repair and helps heal a damaged gut lining.

Hydration and Electrolyte Benefits

For abdominal pain accompanied by diarrhea or vomiting, staying hydrated is crucial. Broth is an excellent way to replenish lost fluids and electrolytes, such as sodium and potassium. These minerals are vital for proper bodily functions, including muscle contractions in the digestive tract. Dehydration can exacerbate abdominal pain and digestive issues, so sipping on a nutrient-dense fluid like broth can be a significant source of relief.

Broth vs. Broth: Making the Right Choice

Not all broths are created equal, and the best choice depends on the individual's needs and sensitivities. Here's a comparison to help you decide:


Feature	Bone Broth	Vegetable Broth
Collagen/Gelatin	High, from simmering bones.	Very low or absent.
Protein Content	Significant, primarily from collagen.	Low, unless fortified with protein powder.
Mineral Content	Rich in minerals like calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus, extracted from bones.	Contains minerals leached from vegetables; dependent on ingredients.
Histamine Risk	Higher risk due to long cooking times; a concern for those with histamine intolerance.	Generally low histamine; safe for those with sensitivities.
Dietary Restrictions	Not suitable for vegans or vegetarians.	Suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
Soothing Effect	Very high, especially for repairing gut lining due to gelatin.	Mild to moderate, depends on vegetable choice (e.g., ginger, carrots).

Potential Pitfalls: Histamine Intolerance

While broth is beneficial for many, bone broth specifically can pose a risk for individuals with histamine intolerance. The longer cooking time required to extract nutrients from bones also increases the histamine content. For someone with this intolerance, consuming high-histamine foods can lead to symptoms like bloating, gas, headaches, and even more stomach pain. If you suspect you have a sensitivity, a simple vegetable broth may be a safer and equally soothing option.

Homemade vs. Store-Bought Broth

Making your own broth is an excellent way to control the quality and ingredients, ensuring it is free from additives or excess sodium. However, high-quality, reputable brands of store-bought bone broth can also be a convenient option. Be sure to read labels carefully to avoid products with added sugars, flavorings, or high sodium, which can further irritate a sensitive stomach.

Beyond Broth: Other Gentle Foods for Abdominal Pain

When your stomach is upset, a bland diet is often the most tolerable. In addition to broth, here are some other foods that are gentle on the digestive system:

BRAT Diet Foods: Bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast are classic choices for settling an upset stomach.
Ginger: Known for its anti-nausea and anti-inflammatory properties, ginger can be consumed as tea or added to bland dishes.
Herbal Teas: Peppermint and chamomile teas are noted for their ability to relax digestive muscles and soothe inflammation.
Plain Yogurt: For some, plain, low-fat yogurt with probiotics can help restore a healthy balance of gut bacteria, though those with lactose intolerance should avoid it.
Cooked Vegetables: Tender, well-cooked vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and sweet potatoes are easier to digest than raw ones.

For more detailed information on easy-to-digest foods, the National Cancer Institute provides an excellent resource.

When to Seek Medical Advice

While broth and a bland diet can provide relief for mild abdominal pain caused by issues like indigestion or a stomach bug, it is crucial to recognize when symptoms warrant medical attention. Consult a healthcare provider if your abdominal pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by symptoms such as:

Fever
Vomiting blood or black, tarry stools
Unexplained weight loss
Swelling in the abdomen
Pain that is so severe you cannot sit still

These symptoms can indicate more serious underlying conditions that require proper diagnosis and treatment.

Conclusion: Broth as a Comforting Aid

Broth is an effective and comforting dietary aid for many experiencing abdominal pain. Its rich nutrient profile, including collagen, gelatin, and beneficial amino acids, directly contributes to healing the gut lining and reducing inflammation. Additionally, its role in providing essential hydration and electrolytes is critical, especially during periods of gastrointestinal distress. By understanding the potential downsides, such as histamine intolerance, and knowing when to opt for homemade vs. store-bought, individuals can safely incorporate broth into their diet for digestive relief. For persistent or severe pain, consulting a doctor remains the most important step.

Frequently Asked Questions

Broth, particularly bone broth, contains compounds like gelatin, collagen, and amino acids such as glutamine and glycine. These nutrients help to heal the gut lining, reduce inflammation, and support healthy digestive function.

For most people, broth is soothing, but long-simmered bone broth can be high in histamine. Individuals with a histamine intolerance may experience side effects like bloating, gas, and stomach pain, in which case a simple vegetable broth may be a better option.

When preparing broth for a sensitive stomach, consider using a shorter cooking time if you are concerned about histamine. For bone broth, add a splash of apple cider vinegar to help extract minerals. Avoid adding excessive spices or irritating ingredients like onion and garlic.

Store-bought broth can be a convenient option, but it is important to choose a high-quality product. Check the label to ensure it is low in sodium and free from artificial additives and preservatives, which could irritate a sensitive gut.

If abdominal pain is caused by vomiting or diarrhea, broth helps to replenish lost fluids and essential electrolytes like sodium and potassium. Maintaining hydration is crucial for proper digestive function and can alleviate cramping.

Yes, bland foods such as bananas, plain white rice, applesauce, and white toast (the BRAT diet) are often recommended. Other soothing options include ginger tea, plain yogurt, and well-cooked vegetables.

If you experience severe or persistent abdominal pain, fever, bloody stools, or unexplained weight loss, it is important to seek medical advice. These symptoms could indicate a more serious underlying condition that requires proper medical evaluation.