Will Chicken Broth Help When Sick? The Comforting Science Behind the Remedy

According to a 2023 study published in the journal Nutrients, chicken broth hydrolysate was shown to improve immune capacity in immunosuppressed mice, providing scientific backing for this classic remedy. So, will chicken broth help when sick? The answer is a resounding yes, thanks to its hydrating properties and anti-inflammatory compounds.

Quick Summary

A warm cup of chicken broth can alleviate symptoms of sickness by providing hydration, electrolytes, and anti-inflammatory properties. Its warmth helps relieve congestion, and its nutrients aid the immune system. Chicken broth can also be gentle on an upset stomach and is a source of essential vitamins and minerals for recovery.

Key Points

• Enhanced Hydration: The liquid and electrolytes in chicken broth, such as sodium and potassium, are crucial for rehydration when experiencing fever, vomiting, or diarrhea.

• Fights Inflammation: Studies show that components in chicken soup, including the broth, can inhibit neutrophil activity, which may help reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract.

• Natural Decongestant: The warmth and steam from hot chicken broth help to loosen and thin mucus, providing temporary relief from stuffy noses and congestion.

• Provides Key Nutrients: Broth contains easily digestible vitamins and minerals that support the immune system and provide energy for recovery.

• Soothes a Sore Throat: The warm, savory liquid is gentle and comforting on an inflamed or scratchy throat.

• Supports Gut Health: Homemade bone broth contains gelatin and amino acids that may help soothe and repair the gut lining, which is closely tied to immune function.

• Gentle on the Digestive System: Broth is often easier to tolerate than solid foods, especially for those with an upset stomach or low appetite during illness.

The Hydration and Electrolyte Powerhouse

When you are sick, especially with a fever, vomiting, or diarrhea, your body loses crucial fluids and electrolytes. Dehydration can worsen symptoms and prolong recovery. Chicken broth is an ideal way to replenish these lost fluids because it contains water and essential minerals like sodium, potassium, and magnesium. Unlike plain water, the added electrolytes in broth help your body absorb and retain fluids more efficiently, making it a more effective rehydration solution during illness.

• Enhanced Fluid Intake: The palatable, savory flavor of broth can make it more appealing to drink than water, encouraging consistent hydration.
• Electrolyte Balance: Minerals in the broth, especially sodium, aid in maintaining the body's fluid balance and nerve function.
• Gentle on the Stomach: For those experiencing nausea or stomach upset, a clear, warm broth is typically easy to digest and soothing.

Anti-Inflammatory Effects for Symptom Relief

Inflammation is a natural part of the body's immune response, but excessive inflammation in the upper respiratory tract can cause discomforting symptoms like congestion and a stuffy nose. Research suggests that chicken soup—and by extension, the broth it's based on—can help reduce inflammation. A well-known 2000 study from the University of Nebraska found that chicken soup inhibited the movement of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell involved in inflammation, which could help ease upper respiratory symptoms.

• Relieves Congestion: The warm steam from a hot cup of broth acts as a natural decongestant, helping to loosen and thin mucus in the nasal passages.
• Soothes a Sore Throat: The warm liquid also provides a soothing effect on an irritated throat, offering temporary relief from pain and scratchiness.
• Provides Amino Acids: The chicken in broth contains the amino acid cysteine, and its derivative N-acetyl-cysteine can help break up mucus.

Nutritional Boost for the Immune System

While broth is not a cure, it offers a concentrated dose of nutrients that support your body's natural healing process. When simmering chicken bones and vegetables, the broth becomes infused with vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that are easily digestible and provide the fuel your immune system needs to fight infection.

Here is a comparison of store-bought chicken broth versus homemade bone broth for illness recovery:

Feature	Store-Bought Chicken Broth	Homemade Bone Broth
Nutrient Density	Often lower in nutrients, focused on flavor.	Rich in easily absorbable minerals (calcium, magnesium) and amino acids (collagen, gelatin).
Ingredients	May contain high sodium, MSG, and artificial flavorings.	Made with natural ingredients, allowing full control over salt and flavorings.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties	Limited, dependent on quality and additives.	Enhanced by simmering bones and anti-inflammatory vegetables like onions and garlic.
Ease of Digestion	Easy on the stomach, though high sodium can be a concern for some.	Considered highly digestible, potentially soothing the gut lining due to gelatin.
Cost	Generally inexpensive and convenient.	Requires more time and ingredients, potentially more costly.

Homemade Broth for Maximum Benefits

For those able, making homemade broth from a roasted chicken carcass or bones, along with vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions, can maximize the health benefits. Adding ingredients like garlic, ginger, and turmeric can further enhance its immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory effects. The slow simmering process extracts healing components like gelatin and collagen, which are believed to aid gut health. Given that the gut plays a significant role in immune function, a healthy digestive system is key to a swift recovery.

Conclusion

While not a magic bullet, chicken broth is a beneficial and evidence-backed home remedy for when you are sick. Its combination of hydration, electrolytes, anti-inflammatory compounds, and nourishing nutrients provides significant comfort and support for the body's immune system. Whether you choose a simple store-bought option or a nutrient-rich homemade bone broth, a warm cup is a wise addition to your sick-day regimen. Alongside rest and proper medical care, it can make a noticeable difference in how you feel and how quickly you recover.

Learn more about the components of chicken broth and immune response

Frequently Asked Questions

How does chicken broth help with a stuffy nose?

The steam and warmth from hot chicken broth act as a natural decongestant, helping to loosen mucus and clear nasal passages. The fluid also helps thin mucus, making it easier to expel.

Is chicken broth better than chicken soup for being sick?

Chicken broth is excellent for hydration and easing an upset stomach. Chicken soup, which includes chicken meat and vegetables, offers more protein, calories, and a wider range of vitamins and minerals. The best choice depends on your specific symptoms and appetite; broth is ideal for nausea, while soup provides more sustenance if you can tolerate solid food.

Does chicken broth really boost my immune system?

While chicken broth is not a 'cure,' its components can support the immune system. The minerals and amino acids extracted from the chicken and vegetables provide essential nutrients that fuel your body's healing process. Ingredients like garlic and onions can add further immune-supporting benefits.

Can I use store-bought chicken broth?

Yes, store-bought chicken broth can still be beneficial, especially for hydration. For maximum nutritional benefits, opt for a low-sodium version. Homemade broth, particularly bone broth, is often richer in minerals and gelatin, but any warm, savory broth is better than none.

How does chicken broth help with a sore throat?

The warmth of the liquid provides a soothing effect on the throat, which can offer temporary relief from soreness and irritation. It also helps to keep you hydrated, which is important for healing.

What are the key ingredients that make chicken broth effective?

Effective chicken broth typically includes water for hydration, chicken (bones and meat) for minerals and amino acids, and vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions for additional vitamins and anti-inflammatory phytonutrients. Spices like garlic and ginger can also be beneficial.

Does the gelatin in bone broth really help when sick?

Bone broth contains gelatin and amino acids extracted from the cooked bones. These compounds are thought to help protect and heal the digestive tract, which can be affected by illness. Supporting gut health is a key way to bolster your overall immune function.