As cold and flu season approaches, the search for natural, effective remedies intensifies—leading many to the rich, savory embrace of bone broth. Touted for its immune-boosting properties and soothing warmth, bone broth has become a staple in kitchens and wellness circles alike. But does it really live up to the hype when it comes to fighting off a cold? Let’s dive into the evidence, dispel common myths, and discover what bone broth can—and can’t—do for your health when you’re under the weather.
Does Bone Broth Break Up Mucus?
Bone broth itself does not directly break up mucus, but its warmth and steam can help loosen congestion and make it easier to clear mucus from your airways. Sipping hot liquids, including bone broth, can thin mucus and soothe irritated throats, providing temporary relief from cold symptoms. While the nutrients in bone broth support overall health, it’s the combination of hydration, heat, and steam that offers the most immediate benefit for easing mucus-related discomfort during a cold.
Why Is Bone Broth Popular For Colds?
- Deeply rooted in traditional and ancestral healing practices across cultures
- Provides soothing warmth and comfort when feeling unwell
- Supplies easily digestible nutrients, minerals, and amino acids
- Believed to support immune health and recovery during illness
- Recommended by wellness experts and widely shared in natural remedy circles
Bone broth has gained popularity as a go-to remedy for colds due to its comforting warmth, rich nutrient profile, and deep roots in traditional healing practices. Many people believe that sipping bone broth can help soothe sore throats, ease congestion, and provide essential hydration when illness strikes. Its slow-simmered blend of bones, vegetables, and herbs releases minerals, collagen, and amino acids, which are thought to support immune function and promote recovery. This combination of nourishing ingredients and centuries-old tradition has cemented bone broth’s reputation as a natural, holistic option for those seeking relief from cold symptoms.
Is Bone Broth Good For a Cold?
Bone broth can be a beneficial addition to your routine when you have a cold, offering soothing hydration, easy-to-digest nutrients, and gentle warmth that may help alleviate symptoms like congestion and sore throat. While scientific evidence supporting bone broth as a cure for colds is limited, its rich content of amino acids, minerals, and gelatin can support overall wellness and provide comfort during illness. The steam from a hot cup of bone broth may also help open nasal passages, while the savory flavor encourages you to stay nourished and hydrated—two key factors in recovering from a cold.
Is Bone Broth More Effective Than Soup For Colds?
Bone broth and traditional soups, such as chicken soup, both offer soothing warmth, hydration, and essential nutrients that can help ease cold symptoms, but there is no strong evidence that bone broth is more effective than other soups for treating colds. While bone broth is rich in minerals, collagen, and amino acids, many homemade soups also provide similar benefits, especially when made with vegetables, herbs, and quality proteins. Ultimately, the key advantages come from consuming hot, nourishing liquids that keep you hydrated and comfortable, rather than from any unique property exclusive to bone broth.
How Should You Use Bone Broth When You’re Sick?
When you’re sick, bone broth can be enjoyed as a warm, nourishing drink on its own or used as a base for soups and stews to help keep you hydrated and provide essential nutrients. Sip it throughout the day to soothe a sore throat, ease congestion, and support your body’s recovery with easily digestible proteins and minerals. You can also add cooked vegetables, herbs, or a squeeze of lemon for extra flavor and nutrition. Whether consumed by the cup or incorporated into simple meals, bone broth offers gentle comfort and sustenance when your appetite is low or your body needs extra care.
Bone Broth For Colds Chart
|
Benefit/Claim |
Fact or Myth |
Explanation |
|
Soothes sore throat |
Fact |
The warmth and hydration from bone broth can help ease throat discomfort during a cold. |
|
Breaks up mucus |
Myth (Indirectly) |
Bone broth doesn’t directly break up mucus, but the steam and warmth can help loosen it. |
|
Boosts immune system |
Partial Fact |
Bone broth contains nutrients that support overall wellness, but it’s not a guaranteed boost. |
|
Provides essential nutrients |
Fact |
Rich in amino acids, minerals, and collagen, bone broth offers easily digestible nutrition. |
|
Cures or prevents colds |
Myth |
There’s no scientific evidence that bone broth can cure or prevent colds. |
|
Better than other soups |
Myth |
Bone broth is nourishing, but not proven to be more effective than other hot soups. |
Is More Always Better When It Comes to Sipping Bone Broth?
While bone broth can be a nourishing addition to your diet when you’re sick, more isn’t always better. Moderation is key, as excessive consumption may lead to an imbalance of certain nutrients, such as sodium, especially if you’re drinking several cups a day. For most people, enjoying one to two cups daily provides comfort and hydration without overloading the body. It’s important to listen to your body’s needs and balance bone broth with other nutrient-rich foods, ensuring a varied and wholesome approach to recovery.
Bone Broth For Colds Facts vs Myths
Bone Broth Facts
- Provides hydration and electrolytes, which are essential for recovery during a cold
- Contains amino acids and minerals that support overall wellness
- The warmth and steam can help soothe sore throats and ease nasal congestion
- Easy to digest, making it a gentle option when appetite is low
- Offers comfort and nourishment, which can help you feel better while your body heals
Bone Broth Myths
- Instantly cures or prevents colds—there’s no scientific proof for this claim
- Contains special “immune-boosting” compounds unique to bone broth
- Replaces the need for medical treatment or other healthy habits
- Works better than any other hot liquid for relieving cold symptoms
- Guarantees faster recovery from illness for everyone
Conclusion
Bone broth remains a comforting and popular choice for those seeking natural relief during a cold, thanks to its soothing warmth, hydration, and nourishing nutrients. While it may not be a miracle cure, bone broth can support your recovery by providing easily digestible proteins, minerals, and the comfort of a time-honored remedy. Incorporating bone broth into your routine—alongside other healthy habits—can help you feel better and more supported as your body heals. Ultimately, its greatest value lies in its ability to offer gentle care and nourishment when you need it most.
Final Thoughts
Curious about which bone broth can best support your immune system and recovery? Discover Dr. Kellyann’s bestsellers, offering a variety of delicious options like chicken, beef, and french onion—all made without GMOs or added sugars. These convenient broths are a simple, tasty way to nourish your gut and energize your day. Visit Dr. Kellyann’s to explore the collection and choose your favorite flavor.
Sources
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321134
- https://nourishedkitchen.com/bone-broth-minerals/
- https://www.ossaorganic.com/blogs/blog/the-history-of-bone-broth
