Why Do I Feel Better After Drinking Bone Broth?

November 18, 2025 •

4 min read

According to traditional medicine and a growing body of research, the therapeutic properties of slow-simmered bone broth can be linked to its rich nutrient profile. This deep dive into the science explains precisely why you feel better after drinking bone broth and how its unique composition benefits your body from the inside out.

Quick Summary

This article explores the science behind the benefits of bone broth, detailing how its key nutrients, including collagen, gelatin, amino acids, and minerals, improve gut health, reduce inflammation, enhance sleep, and provide hydration.

Key Points

Gut Healing: Gelatin and amino acids like glutamine and glycine repair and strengthen the intestinal lining, which reduces inflammation and soothes digestive issues.
Enhanced Sleep and Mood: The amino acid glycine acts as an inhibitory neurotransmitter, promoting relaxation and improving sleep quality while also boosting mood.
Anti-Inflammatory Action: Amino acids like glycine, proline, and arginine help combat chronic inflammation throughout the body.
Superior Hydration: Bone broth is rich in electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and magnesium, which aid in hydration and support proper nerve and muscle function.
Joint and Connective Tissue Support: Collagen and gelatin help maintain and repair joint cartilage, ligaments, and tendons, which can reduce pain and improve mobility.
Easy-to-Absorb Nutrients: The slow-simmering process breaks down nutrients, making them highly bioavailable and easy for your body to absorb and utilize quickly.
Versatile and Nourishing: Bone broth can be used as a standalone beverage, a flavorful base for cooking, or an electrolyte-rich recovery drink.

The Nutrients That Make the Difference

Bone broth is more than just a savory liquid; it is a nutrient-dense elixir derived from simmering animal bones and connective tissues for an extended period, often 12 to 24 hours. This slow-cooking process extracts a wide array of beneficial compounds that contribute to your overall well-being. Unlike conventional broths or stocks, which are cooked for less time and focus on flavor, true bone broth is formulated to maximize nutritional value.

Gelatin and Collagen for a Happy Gut

One of the most significant reasons people feel better after consuming bone broth is its positive effect on gut health. When collagen from the bones and connective tissue breaks down, it forms gelatin. Gelatin is a hydrophilic colloid, meaning it attracts and holds liquids, which can aid in digestion.

Heals the gut lining: The amino acids in gelatin and collagen, particularly glutamine and glycine, are crucial for repairing and strengthening the intestinal wall. This can help soothe digestive issues, reduce inflammation, and prevent conditions like leaky gut syndrome.
Supports digestion: Gelatin supports proper digestion by attracting digestive juices and aiding in the breakdown of food. For those with sensitive stomachs, the easy-to-digest nature of bone broth can be a soothing and nourishing option.

Amino Acids for Rest and Repair

Bone broth is a rich source of various amino acids, the building blocks of protein, with notable concentrations of glycine, proline, and arginine. These amino acids play a crucial role in the body’s repair and maintenance processes.

Glycine for Better Sleep and Mood: Glycine acts as an inhibitory neurotransmitter, with a calming effect on the nervous system. Studies suggest that taking glycine before bed can improve sleep quality, reduce fatigue, and support a more regulated mood. A warm cup of bone broth in the evening provides a natural source of this calming amino acid.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Both glycine and proline have powerful anti-inflammatory effects. Chronic inflammation is a known contributor to numerous health problems, and the compounds in bone broth may help mitigate this widespread issue.
Muscle Recovery: The amino acids in bone broth, including arginine and glutamine, are beneficial for muscle repair and recovery, making it an excellent post-workout beverage.

Electrolytes for Optimal Hydration

Bone broth is an exceptional source of electrolytes, including sodium, potassium, and magnesium. These minerals are vital for maintaining proper hydration, nerve function, and muscle contraction. For athletes or those recovering from illness, replenishing these electrolytes is critical.

Enhanced Hydration: Unlike plain water, bone broth provides electrolytes that help the body absorb and utilize fluids more effectively. This is especially important for sustained energy and preventing dehydration.
Nerve and Muscle Function: The electrolytes in bone broth, such as magnesium, help regulate nerve signaling and muscle function, which can prevent cramping and aid in overall performance.

Homemade vs. Store-Bought: A Comparison


Feature	Homemade Bone Broth	Store-Bought Bone Broth
Cost	Much lower, uses leftover scraps	Significantly higher, premium for convenience
Control	Full control over ingredients, quality, and sodium	Less control, potential for added salts, sugars, and preservatives
Nutrient Density	Often higher due to longer simmer times	Variable, can be inconsistent in nutrient concentration
Safety	Requires attention to proper food handling	Requires careful label reading for additives
Preparation Time	Very long, can take 12-48 hours	Instant or ready-to-heat, very convenient

How to Incorporate Bone Broth into Your Routine

Morning Ritual: Start your day with a warm mug of bone broth as a low-calorie, high-protein alternative to coffee.
Post-Workout Fuel: Drink bone broth after a workout to aid muscle recovery and replenish lost electrolytes.
Culinary Staple: Use bone broth as a base for soups, stews, and sauces, infusing your meals with extra nutrients and flavor.
Cooking Grains: Substitute water with bone broth when cooking rice, quinoa, or other grains for an added nutritional boost.

Important Considerations

While bone broth is generally safe, it's important to be mindful of potential issues. Store-bought broths can vary greatly in quality and sodium content, so reading labels is crucial. For homemade versions, ensuring bones from high-quality sources minimizes the risk of heavy metal contamination. For those with histamine sensitivities, a longer cooking time can increase histamine levels, so a pressure cooker may be a better option. As with any dietary change, consulting with a healthcare provider is recommended, especially for individuals with pre-existing conditions like kidney disease. For additional information on nutrition, the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health Nutrition Source is an excellent resource.

Conclusion: The Holistic Effect of a Nutrient-Rich Elixir

Feeling better after drinking bone broth is not a placebo effect but a tangible result of its rich nutritional profile. The combination of easy-to-digest gelatin for gut healing, calming amino acids like glycine for better sleep and mood, and hydrating electrolytes creates a holistic effect that nourishes the body on multiple fronts. From soothing the gut to fighting inflammation and aiding recovery, a warm cup of bone broth provides a gentle yet powerful boost to your overall wellness. By consistently incorporating high-quality bone broth into your diet, you can support your body's natural healing and find renewed vitality.

Frequently Asked Questions

Many people report feeling more mentally clear and experiencing reduced anxiety shortly after consuming bone broth, which is likely due to the rapid uptake of glycine. More significant changes in gut health and sleep patterns can become noticeable within 1 to 2 weeks of consistent consumption.

Homemade bone broth is often considered more nutritious because you have control over the ingredients and can ensure a long simmering time to extract the maximum amount of nutrients. However, high-quality store-bought brands can be a convenient and effective option, especially when sourced from grass-fed or pasture-raised bones.

Bone broth may support weight loss because it is low in calories but high in protein, which can promote a feeling of fullness and reduce overall calorie intake. The protein and amino acids also support metabolism and muscle mass.

The main difference lies in the cooking time and ingredients used. Bone broth is simmered for a much longer period (12-48 hours) using bones and connective tissue to extract more collagen and minerals. Stock is cooked for a shorter time (2-6 hours) and is primarily for flavor, resulting in fewer health benefits.

While generally safe, individuals with histamine intolerance might experience adverse reactions from long-simmered bone broth. Some store-bought varieties can be high in sodium, so those with blood pressure concerns should check labels. Always consult a doctor if you have underlying health conditions.

Yes, bone broth can support immune function. Its amino acids, such as arginine and glutamine, have immune-boosting properties. Since the gut is closely linked to immune health, and bone broth supports gut integrity, it can have a positive impact on your immune system.

For optimal health benefits, many experts suggest drinking one cup of bone broth daily. However, depending on individual health goals, intake can be adjusted. For example, some may consume more for joint pain relief or reducing inflammation.