Why you Should Consider Adding this Broth to your Pregnancy Diet

Bone broth has exploded in popularity in recent years.

While the research is limited, evidence suggests there are plenty benefits from drinking bone broth. But what exactly is bone broth? Bone broth is a stock made from boiling animal bones (typically beef, chicken, or fish) and the connective tissues, for an extended period of time. Essentially this extracts the collagen from the bones into the liquid.

What makes bone broth so beneficial? And should you drink it while pregnant? Bone broth is actually one of the best liquids you can have while pregnant, as it hits all your essential nutrient needs, and even some nonessential benefits.

1.) Consider having a cup of bone broth if you are feeling pregnancy fatigue. Bone broth is packed with key nutrients, so it can be a quick and easy source to hit your suggested intake of protein, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, glycine, zinc, iron, boron, manganese, selenium, vitamin A, vitamin K2 and omega-3 during pregnancy. Getting these nutrients is important for our metabolic function and how we produce energy.

2.) Bone broth can combat morning sickness. If you’re suffering from this early pregnancy side effect try sipping on some bone broth. The stock is easily digestible and can simmer your queasy stomach. And because it’s such a dense source for nutrients its a great way to get those vitamins during a time when it can be difficult. 

3.) Bone broth contains large amounts of collagen, which can fight stretch marks.  Collagen is renowned for supporting skin, hair, and nails. It’s especially great for skin elasticity which can reduce stretch marks as your body grows, and can even heal stretch marks for some. Drinking a cup of bone broth has the potential to give you that natural pregnancy glow.

4.) Bone broth is great for your gut health and digestion. Foods high in collagen are key to maintaining a healthy gut. A healthy gut, in turn, is important for optimal nutrient absorption for both you and baby.

5.)  Bone broth is a great source for electrolytes, as it contains naturally-occurring electrolytes like sodium, magnesium, and potassium. Electolytes are especially important during pregnancy as it helps keep your energy high, and can fight common side effects of pregnancy like headaches and Charlie horses. 

Now that we established just how great bone broth is (pregnant or not) what is the best bone broth to drink while pregnant? Stick to beef or chicken which are great sources of protein, but try and opt for bones from grass-fed animals. Ideally you should strive for a cup a day, but any consumption is better than none, so if you can only work it into your diet once a week that’s ok too.

Bottoms up to bone broth!