As an autoimmune health coach, I am passionate about empowering individuals on their journey to optimal wellness. One powerful tool in our arsenal is bone broth, a time-honored remedy that not only satisfies our taste buds but also provides a wealth of health benefits, especially for those following the Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) diet. In this blog post, I will delve into the benefits of bone broth for individuals with autoimmune disease, explain the importance of each ingredient in the recipe, and guide you through the step-by-step process of creating a flavorful and nutrient-rich bone broth that supports your healing journey.

The AIP Diet and Its Impact on Autoimmune Diseases

To understand the benefits of bone broth for individuals with autoimmune diseases, it’s essential to grasp the fundamentals of the AIP diet. The AIP diet is an elimination-based eating plan designed to reduce inflammation, support gut health, and alleviate symptoms associated with autoimmune conditions. By avoiding potential trigger foods and focusing on nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory ingredients, the AIP diet aims to rebalance the immune system and promote healing from within.

The AIP diet excludes common inflammatory foods such as grains, legumes, dairy, processed sugars, and nightshade vegetables. Instead, it encourages the consumption of high-quality proteins, healthy fats, vegetables, fruits, and herbs. This dietary approach can positively influence the gut microbiome, repair leaky gut, and reduce systemic inflammation – all of which are essential for managing autoimmune diseases.

Benefits of Bone Broth for Autoimmune Diseases on the AIP Diet

Bone broth is a perfect fit for this dietary approach, as it offers several key benefits:

1. Gut Healing: Leaky gut syndrome, a condition often associated with autoimmune diseases, can lead to increased intestinal permeability and trigger immune system responses. The gelatin and amino acids present in bone broth, such as glycine and glutamine, support the repair and integrity of the gut lining, reducing inflammation and promoting healing.
2. Nutrient Density: Autoimmune diseases are often characterized by nutrient deficiencies. Bone broth is a rich source of essential nutrients, including minerals like calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus, which are crucial for immune function, bone health, and overall well-being. It also contains collagen, a structural protein that supports joint health, skin elasticity, and connective tissues.
3. Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Chronic inflammation plays a significant role in autoimmune diseases. Bone broth contains anti-inflammatory compounds, such as glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate, which help reduce inflammation in the body. These compounds also support joint health and alleviate symptoms associated with conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.

The HEALing Properties of the AIP Bone Broth

Now that we understand the general benefits of bone broth for autoimmune diseases on the AIP diet, let’s explore the importance of each ingredient in our recipe and how they contribute to the healing properties of the broth.

1. Whole Chicken Carcass: The foundation of our bone broth recipe is the chicken carcass, which provides a rich source of collagen and gelatin. Collagen helps repair damaged tissues, while gelatin supports gut health and aids in nutrient absorption. Choosing high-quality, organic, and pasture-raised chicken ensures that the broth is free from harmful additives and contains optimal nutritional value.
2. Carrot: Carrots are packed with antioxidants and beta-carotene, which convert to vitamin A in the body. Vitamin A is essential for immune function and supports the health of the skin, mucous membranes, and eyes. Additionally, carrots add a subtle sweetness to the broth, enhancing its flavor profile.
3. Yellow Onion: Rich in antioxidants and sulfur compounds, onions possess anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. They also add depth of flavor to the broth and provide additional nutrients like vitamin C and quercetin, which support immune function and reduce oxidative stress.
4. Celery: Celery is a nutrient-dense vegetable that adds a refreshing taste to the broth. It contains compounds like apigenin, luteolin, and polyphenols, which possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Celery also provides important minerals like potassium and folate, contributing to overall health and well-being.
5. Garlic: Known for its potent antimicrobial and immune-enhancing properties, garlic is a powerhouse ingredient in bone broth. It contains sulfur compounds, such as allicin, which have been shown to support immune function and reduce inflammation. Garlic also adds a delightful flavor to the broth.
6. Apple Cider Vinegar: Adding a splash of apple cider vinegar to the broth helps extract valuable minerals from the bones, making them more accessible and enhancing the nutrient profile of the broth. The acidity of the vinegar aids in breaking down collagen and releasing beneficial compounds during the simmering process.
7. Sea Salt: Sea salt not only enhances the flavor of the broth but also provides essential minerals like sodium and trace minerals. These minerals support proper hydration, nerve function, and electrolyte balance in the body.
8. Parsley: Parsley is a nutrient powerhouse, rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate and iron. It adds freshness and a mild herbal taste to the broth, while also contributing to its nutritional profile.

Now that we understand the benefits of each ingredient, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating a nourishing bone broth that will support your autoimmune health journey:

HEALing Bone Broth

Indulge in the nourishing goodness of homemade bone broth, a flavorful elixir packed with health benefits. This simple recipe combines a whole chicken carcass with aromatic vegetables, such as carrots, onions, celery, and garlic, along with the tangy addition of apple cider vinegar and the freshness of parsley.

Simmered to perfection, this nutrient-dense bone broth provides essential minerals, collagen, and gelatin, supporting gut health, reducing inflammation, and boosting immunity. Incorporate this healing elixir into your daily routine to nourish your body and support your autoimmune health journey.

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Servings 6 servings

Equipment

• 1 Slow Cooker
• 1 Strainer or Mesh Sack

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 1 Whole Chicken Carcass (about 2 lbs. of bones)
• 1 Carrot (peeled and chopped)
• 1 Yellow Onion (diced)
• 2 stalks Celery (chopped)
• 3 cloves Garlic (halved)
• 1 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar
• 1 tsp Sea Salt
• 1 cup Parsley (chopped)
• 6 cups Water

Instructions

 

• Place the bones in the slow cooker.
• Add all remaining ingredients.
• Set slow cooker to low and let cook for at least 12 hours.
• After 12 hours, strain the broth through a strainer or mesh sack.
• Discard the vegetables that you strained out.
• Allow broth to cool.
• Once cool, remove the layer of fat that forms on the top and discard or save it for future cooking.
• Freeze broth until ready to use

Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Incorporating bone broth into your daily routine is a simple yet powerful way to support your autoimmune health journey. Whether you enjoy it as a comforting beverage or use it as a base for various soups and stews, bone broth provides a plethora of nutrients and healing compounds that nourish your body from within. So, why not start reaping the benefits of this nourishing elixir today? Cheers to vibrant health and well-being!

If you are looking for more tips and support, join me over on my group page, The Village – A Natural HEALing Community, to get tons of information and tips to help you take your HEALTHY EATING and ACTIVE LIVING to the next level.