Will Chicken Broth Keep You Hydrated?

November 19, 2025 •

3 min read

A study in the American Journal of Physiology shows sodium and electrolytes in broth help the body absorb fluids more effectively than water alone. This suggests chicken broth will keep you hydrated more efficiently than simply drinking water.

Quick Summary

Chicken broth effectively hydrates due to its high water content and electrolytes like sodium and potassium. Its nutrients support fluid absorption, beneficial during illness, exercise, or dehydration.

Key Points

Electrolyte Content: Chicken broth contains sodium, potassium, and magnesium, vital for retaining fluids and maintaining hydration.
Enhanced Absorption: Electrolytes enable the body to absorb and utilize fluids more effectively than with water alone.
Ideal for Illness and Exercise: Chicken broth is helpful for rehydration when fluids and electrolytes are lost through sickness or strenuous activity.
Choose Low-Sodium Broths: Store-bought broth can be high in sodium. Low-sodium versions or homemade broth control salt intake.
Not a Complete Replacement: Chicken broth is not a substitute for water or a balanced diet. It should supplement, not replace, regular fluid intake and whole foods.
Bone Broth's Superiority: Bone broth offers a richer concentration of minerals, collagen, and amino acids, making it a more potent rehydrating and nutrient-dense option.

Understanding Hydration: Why Water Isn't Always Enough

Water is essential for hydration, but the body needs more than just water to function well. Proper hydration involves a balance of fluids and electrolytes, which are minerals with an electric charge. These electrolytes, such as sodium, potassium, and magnesium, help with nerve function, muscle contractions, and fluid balance. When fluids are lost through sweating, illness, or exercise, electrolytes are also lost. Replacing fluids with only water can dilute the body's electrolyte levels, making more comprehensive rehydration solutions necessary.

The Electrolyte Advantage of Chicken Broth

Chicken broth offers a significant advantage in this situation. High-quality chicken broth, particularly bone broth, contains naturally occurring electrolytes. These electrolytes are released from bones and vegetables during simmering. A cup of traditional bone broth can provide sodium, potassium, and magnesium. The presence of sodium helps the body retain water. This combination of fluid and electrolytes makes chicken broth a tool for restoring fluid balance. The warmth of the broth can also soothe a sore throat and relieve nasal congestion, adding to its benefits.

Comparing Hydrating Beverages


Feature	Chicken Broth	Sports Drink	Plain Water
Primary Hydration Agent	Water + Electrolytes	Water + Electrolytes	Water
Electrolyte Source	Natural (sodium, potassium, magnesium)	Synthetic additives	None (minerals from tap vary)
Sugar Content	Low to none	Often high	None
Nutritional Value	Rich in amino acids, collagen	Minimal beyond carbs/electrolytes	None
Best For...	Illness, everyday wellness, keto/low-carb diets	Intense, prolonged exercise	General daily hydration

Broth vs. Bone Broth: A Distinction with Hydration Implications

Both broths can hydrate, but their electrolyte and mineral content differs. Standard chicken broth is made by simmering meat and vegetables for a shorter time. It still hydrates but has a lower mineral density. Chicken bone broth is simmered for longer (up to 24 hours), which extracts more collagen, amino acids, and minerals from the bones. This makes bone broth a potent rehydration solution, packed with nutrients that support health. The collagen and amino acids in bone broth also benefit gut health and joint support.

Potential Downsides and Considerations

Chicken broth is a good hydrating option, but there are considerations. Store-bought broths, especially dehydrated cubes, can be high in sodium. Excessive sodium can have negative health effects, especially for those with high blood pressure. Homemade broth or low-sodium versions are often the healthiest choices.

Solely relying on chicken broth for hydration is not a balanced approach. It provides electrolytes and nutrients, but lacks the full spectrum of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and healthy fats needed for a complete diet. Broth should supplement, not replace, a varied and healthy diet that includes water, fruits, and vegetables.

Conclusion

Chicken broth can keep you hydrated. Due to its water, electrolytes, and nutrients, it helps restore fluid balance, especially when recovering from illness or after a workout. Incorporate homemade bone broth or a low-sodium commercial variety. This liquid helps replenish fluids and supports health, from gut integrity to immune function. Paired with a balanced diet and regular water, chicken broth is a tool for staying well-hydrated.

For more information on the science behind broth's health benefits, refer to the National Institutes of Health's research on immune-modulating properties.

Frequently Asked Questions

Chicken broth can be more hydrating than water in some situations because it contains electrolytes like sodium and potassium. These minerals help the body absorb and retain fluid more efficiently.

Yes, chicken broth, especially bone broth, contains naturally-occurring electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus, extracted from bones and vegetables during simmering.

Drinking chicken broth daily can supplement fluid intake, but moderation is key, especially with store-bought varieties that can be high in sodium. Homemade or low-sodium options are preferable for regular consumption.

Canned chicken broth can aid in hydration, but check the sodium content. Many canned versions are high in sodium. Low-sodium varieties are a better choice.

Chicken broth is a natural alternative to sports drinks for most rehydration needs. It provides electrolytes without added sugars, artificial colors, and sweeteners.

Yes. When sick with fever, vomiting, or diarrhea, the body loses fluids and electrolytes. Chicken broth helps replenish both, and its warmth can soothe a sore throat and clear congestion.

Chicken bone broth is simmered longer, resulting in a more concentrated and nutrient-dense liquid with a higher content of electrolytes and collagen. Both are hydrating, but bone broth offers a more robust nutritional profile.