Some people may have heard about the recent bone broth diet trend which has more than 155 million views on TikTok.
And not only does it have a huge online presence, there are also celebrities like Gwyneth Paltrow and Kylie Jenner shouting about its supposed benefits. There are claims that it gives people glowing skin, stops bloating and can even help with weight loss.
The drink made from animal bones is popping up in both health food shops and supermarkets, as more look to jump on the latest wellness trend.
"Bone broth is a liquid made by simmering animal bones and connective tissue, typically from beef, chicken, or fish, with vegetables, herbs, and spices for an extended period of time," says Sarah Coe, a nutrition scientist at the British Nutrition Foundation.
"It can be used as a base for soups, sauces, stews and risottos, but is also sometimes consumed as a drink."
The research on bone broth is fairly mixed, and with influential celebrities raving about its benefits, many will likely be wondering if it's a worthwhile addition to your diet.
"Despite the popularity of bone broth, there is very little scientific research looking at its potential health benefits," Coe adds. "Bone broth can contain some protein, vitamins, minerals and amino acids, which are released from bones and tissues when they are boiled."
Sarah Watkins, a dietitian and chief science officer at Field Doctor, says there may be some truth in claims that it’s good for skin.
She says: "It’s suggested that it’s anti-ageing – bone broth contains collagen which is a structural protein found in the bone, skin, and cartilage. Clinical studies have demonstrated that supplementing with collagen can improve elasticity, hydration, and the appearance of wrinkles in human skin.
"The collagen in the bone broth could also aid in protecting bones and joints from damage brought on by ageing."
Both experts explain that there can be some risks when it comes to bone broth. These risks include a lack of balance in a bone broth diet and lead risks if you drink too much.
Watkins explains: "There is a risk that bone broths may also be low in nutritional value so if you want to try bone broth you might want to add more vegetables and grains to the broth for a more balanced meal.
She adds: "Please also watch out for the high salt content as this may be an issue as well as other additives which are not great for your gut microbiome."
More alarmingly, Coe says: "Some research has suggested that drinking large quantities of bone broth may cause concern because of the high concentrations of lead found in these broths."
Small quantities of bone broth shouldn’t do any harm though, so if you really want to you can drink some without major risks. But remember it isn’t a miracle gut health, anti-ageing, weight loss potion.
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