Many of us, especially women, spend hundreds if not thousands of dollars per year on lotions, potions and fad products designed to smooth wrinkles and give us a beautiful, healthy glow. However, did you know that the ingredients for what is perhaps the most useful food for beauty are likely already in your kitchen?
Organic bone broth, whether from chicken, fish, grass-fed beef, pork or lamb, is one of the healthiest foods you can eat. Bone broth has been celebrated for its medicinal qualities since the times of the Ancient Chinese, who associate it with kidney health, clean blood and hormonal balance.
Bone broth is teeming with antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, and is recommended by many modern beauty experts. One of these is Julia March, a Hollywood beauty therapist, who specifically recommends beef and lamb bone broth. March states, “my clients see less inflammation, more glow and more toned skin when they drink it. It repairs, strengthens, rejuvenates and heals.”
The protein, vitamins and minerals contained in bone broth are easily absorbed by the body, and work to nourish all of the body’s systems. The antioxidants in this wonder-liquid work to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation. As many skin conditions, including acne, eczema and psoriasis are spurred by inflammation, and the aging process is sped up by oxidative stress, regularly drinking bone broth can help.
Along with antioxidants, bone broth contains collagen and gelatin, which are released when bones are boiled. Both collagen and gelatin are essential to skin regeneration, the strength and growth rate of your hair, and the condition of your nails. Collagen is a protein responsible for providing skin its elasticity and structure, hence the complexion-nourishing properties of the broth.
Bone broth also contains glucosamine, which can promote the formation of new collagen, and is also linked to reduction in joint pain. Bone cartilage contains hyaluronic acid, which draws water and minerals into the cells. This may help skin to stay moisturized and supple. On top of that, it is rich in glycine, an amino acid which, along with aiding in liver detoxification, can help to relieve anxiety and promote restful sleep – a must for looking your best.
Making your own bone broths at home is easy. Below, check out our recipe for simple chicken bone broth, prepared in the slow cooker.
Organic Chicken Bone Broth Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 pounds organic bone-in chicken pieces
- 6 cups of water
- 2 organic celery stalks, chopped
- 2 organic carrots, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 sprigs of thyme
- 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar
Place all of the ingredients in a slow cooker for at least 12 and preferably up to 24 hours. Strain when cooled and store in glass jars in the refrigerator. Enjoy daily!
-The Alternative Daily
Sources:
http://www.theholisticingredient.com/blogs/wholesome-food/10370710-the-health-benefits-of-bone-broth-and-a-recipe
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-2570730/For-firmer-skin-forget-botox-face-creams-drink-bowl-bone-broth.html
http://www.westonaprice.org/health-topics/broth-is-beautiful
