Bone Broth & Immunity: The Ancient Remedy That Boosts Your Defences

We’ve become so used to quick fixes and over-the-counter cold remedies that it’s easy to forget about time-honoured solutions that have truly stood the test of time. One of the most tried and tested remedies is bone broth. Used for centuries in traditional cultures to nourish the body and support healing, bone broth is currently experiencing a renaissance, and for good reason.

When it comes to immunity, bone broth isn’t just comforting, it’s a powerhouse of nutrients that can help keep your body strong, resilient, and ready to fight off infection. Let’s explore how this nourishing staple supports your immune system at every level.

Immune-Boosting Amino Acids

Bone broth is packed with specific amino acids which play critical roles in supporting the immune system:
•    Glutamine is a major fuel source for rapidly dividing immune cells and also supports the gut lining, where most of your innate immune system resides.
•    Glycine is known for its anti-inflammatory effects and also supports restful sleep, a critical factor for a strong immune response.
•    Proline contributes to collagen synthesis, aiding tissue repair and reinforcing protective barriers throughout the body.

These amino acids work together to help your immune system stay balanced and responsive when needed, but not overreactive (which can drive chronic inflammation).

Stronger Gut, Stronger Immunity

When most of us think about the immune system, we picture white blood cells fighting off germs in the bloodstream. The reality is that about 70% of your immune cells live in the gut. That means the health of your gut lining and microbiome plays a pivotal role in how effectively your body fights off illness.

Bone broth is rich in collagen and gelatin, which break down into amino acids that help seal and repair the gut lining, reducing the risk of "leaky gut," which can lead to immune dysfunction.

By supporting a strong gut barrier, bone broth helps your immune system function appropriately, supporting resistance to infection, enhancing tolerance to allergens and reducing overreactions that can result in unwanted states of inflammation.

Naturally Nutrient-Dense

Bone broth is one of nature’s richest sources of essential nutrients. It delivers minerals in highly bioavailable forms including:
•    Zinc - crucial for the development and function of immune cells
•    Magnesium – helps modulate inflammatory responses
•    Calcium and phosphorus – essential for cellular communication and defence

Because these immune-supporting nutrients are delivered in a natural, whole-food form, your body readily recognises and absorbs them. That makes bone broth an easy, everyday way to nourish your immune system.

Calms Inflammation

Ongoing, low-grade inflammation quietly undermines your immunity. It slows down healing, increases your risk of infection, and can drain your energy over time.

Alongside its well-known supply of glycine, bone broth also provides compounds like chondroitin sulphate and glucosamine, which may help calm inflammatory pathways linked to autoimmunity and chronic illness. By easing this background inflammation, bone broth supports a more balanced immune response, ensuring your defences are ready without going into overdrive.

Final Sip

In an age of complex health advice, bone broth offers something refreshingly simple: deep nourishment grounded in both science and tradition. Whether you’re navigating winter sniffles or looking to build year-round resilience, making bone broth part of your routine is a small shift with powerful payoffs.

References:

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