Is Bone Broth Good for Heart Health?

Reading time:14 min

Published:July 31, 2025

Author:

Cymbiotika

Many people are returning to traditional foods to support their modern wellness goals. Bone broth has transitioned from a kitchen staple used by our grandparents to a prominent fixture in the health community. While it is often praised for its role in gut health or skin radiance, many are now asking a more specific question: is bone broth good for heart health?

Introduction

At Cymbiotika, we believe that true wellness is built on a foundation of transparency and nutrient density. Understanding exactly what you are consuming—and how your body absorbs those nutrients—is essential for making informed choices. In this article, we will explore the emerging science behind bone broth, its potential cardiovascular benefits, and how to incorporate it into a balanced routine.

While bone broth is not a substitute for medical care, current research suggests that the unique peptides found in slowly simmered bones may support various aspects of heart and vascular wellness.

Quick Answer: Bone broth contains specific bioactive peptides that may help support healthy blood pressure levels and a balanced inflammatory response. While more human studies are needed, its rich amino acid profile provides the building blocks for a heart-healthy lifestyle.

What Exactly Is Bone Broth?

Bone broth is a nutrient-dense liquid created by simmering animal bones and connective tissues for an extended period. Unlike standard stocks or broths, which may only cook for a few hours, bone broth is typically simmered for 12 to 48 hours. This slow process, often aided by a small amount of acid like apple cider vinegar, helps break down the structural proteins and minerals within the bones.

The result is a liquid rich in protein, specifically collagen. As the collagen cooks down, it turns into gelatin, giving high-quality bone broth a characteristic "jelly" texture when cooled. This transformation is a visual indicator of the protein concentration within the broth.

The Difference Between Broth, Stock, and Bone Broth

It is common to use these terms interchangeably, but they differ significantly in their preparation and nutrient profiles. Understanding these differences helps you choose the best option for your specific goals.

Feature
Regular Broth
Standard Stock
Bone Broth

Primary Ingredient
Mostly meat and vegetables
Mostly bones and aromatics
Bones and connective tissue

Cooking Time
45 minutes to 2 hours
3 to 4 hours
12 to 48 hours

Protein Content
2–5 grams per cup
3–6 grams per cup
8–10+ grams per cup

Texture
Thin and watery
Slightly viscous
Thick and gelatinous (when cold)

Key Nutrient
Flavors and light minerals
Minerals and some collagen
High collagen, gelatin, and peptides

Is Bone Broth Good for Heart Health? The Science

The connection between bone broth and heart health primarily involves bioactive peptides. Peptides are short chains of amino acids that act as messengers in the body. When we digest the long-chain proteins found in bone broth, our digestive enzymes break them down into these smaller, more manageable pieces.

Recent research has focused on how these peptides interact with enzymes in the cardiovascular system. A study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry looked specifically at peptides derived from simmering bones. Researchers found that certain peptides may inhibit enzymes that are known to play a role in regulating blood pressure and vascular tension.

For broader context on building a heart-supportive routine, explore Cymbiotika’s heart health guide.

Understanding Cardioprotective Peptides

The peptides found in bone broth, particularly those derived from hemoglobin and collagen, may have a positive impact on the cardiovascular system. Some of these compounds have been observed to act as natural inhibitors of the ACE-1 enzyme. In a clinical setting, blocking this enzyme is a common strategy for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels.

While bone broth is a food and not a medication, including these natural inhibitors in your diet may support the body's natural ability to regulate tension in the blood vessels. This "cardioprotective" effect is one of the most compelling reasons why people are looking at bone broth as more than just a remedy for the common cold.

Impact on Inflammation and Vascular Health

Chronic inflammation is a significant factor in long-term cardiovascular wellness. Bone broth is rich in amino acids like glycine and arginine, both of which have been studied for their ability to support a balanced inflammatory response.

Arginine, in particular, is a precursor to nitric oxide. Nitric oxide is a molecule that helps blood vessels relax and dilate, which supports healthy circulation. By providing the raw materials for nitric oxide production, bone broth may help maintain the flexibility and health of the arterial walls.

Key Takeaway: Bone broth provides bioactive peptides and amino acids like arginine that may support blood vessel relaxation and a healthy inflammatory response, both of which are critical for cardiovascular longevity.

The Role of Bioavailability

One of the most important questions to ask about any supplement or functional food is: "Does my body actually absorb this?" At Cymbiotika, bioavailability is the lens through which we view every wellness strategy. We prioritize delivery methods, such as liposomal technology, to ensure nutrients survive the harsh environment of the gut.

Learn more about liposomal delivery and bioavailability to understand how delivery methods can influence nutrient absorption.

When it comes to bone broth, the cooking process itself acts as a form of "pre-digestion." By simmering the bones for up to 48 hours, the tough collagen is already broken down into gelatin and smaller peptides. This makes it significantly easier for your digestive system to move those nutrients across the intestinal wall and into the bloodstream.

However, not all bone broths are equal. The source of the bones, the length of the simmer, and the inclusion of an acid (like vinegar) all change how many nutrients are released. Standard store-bought broths often lack the long cook times necessary to achieve high bioavailability, which is why making your own or choosing a high-quality, transparent brand is essential.

Beyond the Heart: Other Potential Benefits

While heart health is a major focus, the nutrients in bone broth provide systemic support. Because the cardiovascular system is closely linked to digestion and metabolic health, these secondary benefits also contribute to a healthy ticker.

Gut Health and the Intestinal Barrier

The gut and the heart are more connected than many realize. A healthy gut lining prevents unwanted compounds from entering the bloodstream, where they could trigger systemic inflammation. Bone broth contains glutamine, an amino acid that serves as a primary fuel source for the cells lining the digestive tract.

By supporting the integrity of the intestinal barrier—often referred to as the "gut-heart axis"—bone broth may help lower the overall inflammatory load on the cardiovascular system. A calm, well-functioning gut is often the first step toward a healthy heart.

For more ideas, read about what type of bone broth is best for gut health or explore the Gut Health collection.

Sleep Quality and Metabolic Support

Bone broth is one of the best dietary sources of glycine. Research suggests that glycine can help improve sleep quality by lowering core body temperature and supporting the nervous system's transition into a relaxed state.

Consistent, high-quality sleep is a non-negotiable pillar of heart health. During sleep, your heart rate slows and your blood pressure drops, giving your cardiovascular system a much-needed period of recovery. Sipping a warm cup of bone broth in the evening may be a simple way to support this nightly repair cycle.

Weight Management

Maintaining a healthy weight is one of the most effective ways to support heart health. Bone broth is high in protein but relatively low in calories. The gelatin content can help you feel more satiated, which may reduce the urge to reach for processed snacks between meals. Replacing high-calorie, low-nutrient drinks with bone broth is an easy way to increase your nutrient intake without adding unnecessary stress to your metabolism.

How to Choose or Make the Best Bone Broth

To get the most benefit for your heart and overall wellness, you must be discerning about the quality of your broth.

Choosing the Right Ingredients

If you are making your own, the quality of the animal matters. Organic and grass-fed bones are preferred, as these animals are less likely to have been exposed to heavy metals or pesticides that could accumulate in the bone marrow.

Marrow bones: Rich in fat-soluble vitamins and minerals.
Joint bones (knuckles, feet): These provide the highest concentration of collagen and gelatin.
Aromatics: Adding garlic, onions, and celery provides additional antioxidants like quercetin, which also supports heart health.

For another perspective on bone broth’s nutritional value, explore this guide to bone broth and bone density.

DIY Bone Broth: A Simple Strategy

If you're ready to start a routine, making a batch at home is the most cost-effective method.

Gather your bones: Use about 2–4 pounds of animal bones. Roasting them at 400°F for 20 minutes first can enhance the flavor.
Add water and acid: Place the bones in a large pot or slow cooker and cover with water. Add two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to help pull minerals and collagen from the bones.
Simmer low and slow: Bring to a boil, then reduce to a very low simmer. Cook chicken bones for at least 12–24 hours and beef bones for 24–48 hours.
Strain and store: Remove the solids and strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve. Let it cool before refrigerating.
Remove excess fat: Once cooled, a layer of fat will harden on top. You can scrape this off if you prefer a leaner broth.

Bottom line: The quality of your bone broth is defined by the quality of the bones and the length of the simmer. For maximum heart-supporting peptides, aim for long cook times and high-quality sourcing.

Common Myths vs. Facts

Myth: Bone broth is a "miracle" cure for heart disease.
Fact: There are no miracle cures. Bone broth is a functional food that provides the building blocks for a heart-healthy lifestyle, but it must be paired with exercise, proper sleep, and a balanced diet.

Myth: All store-bought broths are the same as bone broth.
Fact: Many commercial "broths" are made with flavorings and salt rather than a long simmering process. They lack the gelatin and bioactive peptides found in true bone broth.

Myth: Bone broth has too much sodium for heart health.
Fact: Homemade bone broth allows you to control the salt content completely. If buying store-bought, always look for "low-sodium" versions to keep your intake within a healthy range.

Integrating Bone Broth into Your Wellness Routine

Building a sustainable routine is about consistency over intensity. You don't need to drink gallons of broth to see results; many people find that a single cup a day is a manageable and effective addition.

Practical ways to use bone broth:

Morning Warm-up: Swap your second cup of coffee for a seasoned mug of broth.
Cooking Base: Use it instead of water when cooking rice, quinoa, or farro to infuse your grains with protein and minerals.
Evening Ritual: Sip a cup of warm broth an hour before bed to take advantage of the calming effects of glycine.
Smoothie Secret: If you don't like the savory taste, you can freeze bone broth into ice cubes and add one or two to a fruit smoothie. The flavor is easily masked by berries and greens.

If you find that making broth is too time-consuming, you can look for high-quality powders or concentrates. Just remember to check the label for fillers, artificial flavors, or excessive sodium. Your goal is a clean, transparent product that aligns with your health objectives.

Building a Comprehensive Heart Routine

While bone broth offers unique benefits, it is just one piece of the puzzle. Heart health is multifaceted. It involves managing stress, ensuring your cells have the energy they need to function, and protecting your body from oxidative stress.

At Cymbiotika, we often suggest looking at the synergy between different nutrients. For instance, the amino acids in bone broth work well alongside essential fatty acids. Our formula, The Omega, provides high-quality DHA and EPA, which are well-known for supporting cardiovascular and brain health. When you combine the structural support of bone broth with the anti-inflammatory power of omega-3s, you are creating a robust environment for your heart to thrive.

For more on essential fatty acids, read this guide to omega-3, omega-6, and omega-9 benefits.

Similarly, if you are using bone broth to support your sleep and evening recovery, you might consider pairing it with our Magnesium Complex. Magnesium is essential for over 300 biochemical reactions in the body, including those that regulate heart rhythm and muscle relaxation.

Conclusion

Is bone broth good for heart health? The evidence points to a resounding "yes" as part of a holistic approach. By providing bioactive peptides that support blood pressure regulation and amino acids that balance inflammation, bone broth is a powerful ally for your cardiovascular system.

At Cymbiotika, our mission is to empower you with the tools and knowledge to take ownership of your health. We believe in the power of ancient wisdom backed by modern science. Whether you are simmering a pot of bones on your stove or selecting high-quality supplements to fill the gaps in your diet, the goal is the same: to provide your body with the most bioavailable, clean, and effective nutrients possible.

Wellness is a journey of small, intentional choices. If you are looking for more personalized guidance on how to build a routine that supports your heart, energy, and longevity, we invite you to take our Health Quiz. It is designed to help you navigate your options and find the specific formulas that fit your unique lifestyle.

"True health isn't found in a single habit, but in the cumulative effect of the small, high-quality choices we make every day."

FAQ

Does bone broth contain a lot of sodium?

Homemade bone broth only contains the salt you choose to add. While some store-bought brands can be high in sodium, you can easily find low-sodium options or make your own at home to ensure it remains a heart-healthy choice.

Can bone broth help lower blood pressure?

Bone broth contains bioactive peptides that may act as natural inhibitors of the ACE-1 enzyme, which is involved in blood pressure regulation. While it is not a replacement for medical treatment, it can be a supportive part of a diet focused on cardiovascular health.

How much bone broth should I drink for heart benefits?

Many health enthusiasts find that one cup (8 ounces) of high-quality bone broth per day is sufficient to enjoy its nutritional benefits. Consistency is more important than the total amount, as the body benefits from a steady supply of these amino acids and peptides.

Is chicken or beef bone broth better for the heart?

Both offer significant benefits. Chicken bone broth is often higher in certain amino acids and lower in fat, while beef bone broth typically contains more minerals and a different profile of collagen types. Many people choose to rotate between different types to get a wider variety of nutrients.

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Table of Contents

Introduction

What Exactly Is Bone Broth?

Is Bone Broth Good for Heart Health? The Science

The Role of Bioavailability

Beyond the Heart: Other Potential Benefits

How to Choose or Make the Best Bone Broth

Common Myths vs. Facts

Integrating Bone Broth into Your Wellness Routine

Building a Comprehensive Heart Routine

Conclusion

FAQ

Dive deeper

Frequently searched

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Liposomal Advanced Creatine

Liquid Colostrum

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Frequently searched

Recommended

Liposomal Advanced Creatine

Liquid Colostrum

Liposomal Elderberry

What Exactly Is Bone Broth?

Is Bone Broth Good for Heart Health? The Science

The Role of Bioavailability

Beyond the Heart: Other Potential Benefits

How to Choose or Make the Best Bone Broth

Common Myths vs. Facts

Integrating Bone Broth into Your Wellness Routine

Building a Comprehensive Heart Routine

Conclusion

FAQ

Frequently searched

Recommended

Liposomal Advanced Creatine

Liquid Colostrum

Liposomal Elderberry