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Chicken Broth

Also known as: Chicken broth, Chicken bone broth, Enriched chicken bone broth (ECBB), Chicken broth hydrolysate (CBH), Chicken Broth

Overview

Chicken broth is a liquid preparation made by simmering chicken bones and connective tissues, extracting proteins (mainly collagen), minerals, and bioactive peptides. It is traditionally consumed as a food and increasingly used as a supplement for nutritional support, immune modulation, and potential neuroprotective effects. It is rich in hydrolyzed collagen (mostly type II collagen), chondroitin sulfate, and histidine dipeptides such as carnosine and anserine, which contribute to its antioxidant and immunomodulatory properties. Research is emerging, with primarily preclinical studies in animal models and limited human clinical trials. The quality of available evidence is moderate, including controlled animal studies with some biochemical characterization.

Benefits

Chicken broth exhibits several potential health benefits, primarily supported by preclinical studies. Enriched chicken bone broth (ECBB) has shown neuroprotective effects by inhibiting trigeminal nociceptor sensitization in animal models, potentially reducing migraine risk, especially in females with higher basal sensitization. Chicken broth hydrolysate (CBH) has demonstrated immune-modulating properties, improving immune function in immunosuppressed mice, comparable to purified histidine dipeptides. Additionally, the histidine dipeptides in chicken broth contribute to antioxidant effects. The mineral content (calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium) may provide nutritional support. While effect sizes in animal studies are statistically significant, human clinical relevance remains to be established.

How it works

Chicken broth's mechanism of action involves several biological pathways. It inhibits trigeminal nociceptor sensitization, reducing neurogenic inflammation and pain signaling associated with migraine. Immunomodulation occurs via antioxidant histidine dipeptides (carnosine, anserine), which reduce oxidative stress and improve immune organ function. The broth interacts with the nervous system by modulating pain pathways in the trigeminal nerve and with the immune system by enhancing immune response in immunosuppressed conditions. Hydrolyzed collagen and peptides in the broth are bioavailable, and enzymatic hydrolysis increases histidine dipeptide content, enhancing functional effects.

Side effects

Based on available research, chicken broth appears to have a favorable safety profile. No adverse effects were reported in animal studies, and supplementation did not affect body weight or food consumption. Common, uncommon, and rare side effects have not been reported in controlled studies. There is currently no data available regarding drug interactions. No contraindications have been identified, although caution is advised for individuals with allergies to chicken or related proteins. Special population considerations include effects noted in stressed and immunosuppressed animal models, but human data is lacking. Overall, chicken broth is generally considered safe as a food, but further research is needed to fully assess its safety profile as a supplement.

Dosage

Due to limited human research, specific dosing guidelines for chicken broth are not well-established. Animal studies have used dietary inclusion starting at weaning or oral gavage for 15 days. The optimal dosage range and maximum safe dose are currently undefined. Early and continuous supplementation may be beneficial for neuroprotection, while short-term use has been effective for immune modulation in mice. Enriched chicken bone broth powder with high protein and peptide content is preferred. Enzymatic hydrolysis enhances histidine dipeptide content and bioavailability. No required cofactors have been specified. Further research is needed to determine appropriate and safe dosages for human consumption.

FAQs

Is chicken broth effective for migraine prevention?

Animal studies suggest it may reduce migraine-related nerve sensitization, but human clinical trials are needed to confirm these findings.

Can chicken broth boost the immune system?

Preclinical evidence supports immune enhancement in immunosuppressed models via histidine dipeptides, but human studies are necessary.

Is chicken broth safe to consume regularly?

No adverse effects have been reported in animal studies; it is generally considered safe as a food, but consult with a healthcare provider.

How soon can benefits be expected?

In animal models, effects were observed after weeks of supplementation. Human studies are needed to determine the timeline for benefits.

Does cooking method affect benefits?

Enzymatic hydrolysis during cooking increases bioactive peptides, potentially improving the effects of the broth.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7864107/ – This controlled animal study (rats) demonstrated that enriched chicken bone broth suppressed trigeminal nerve sensitization linked to migraine triggers, resulting in a significant reduction in nociceptive responses (p < 0.05). Early life stress increased sensitivity, which broth supplementation mitigated. The study provides moderate quality evidence supporting the neuroprotective potential of chicken broth.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9659005/ – This RCT in immunosuppressed mice (n≥30 per group) showed that chicken broth hydrolysate improved immune organ health and immune capacity comparable to purified histidine dipeptides, with significant effects (p < 0.05). The study used appropriate controls and statistical analysis, providing high-quality preclinical evidence for the immunomodulatory effects of chicken broth. However, the findings are limited by the animal model and the absence of human trials.
https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/abs/10.1089/jmf.2019.0312 – This study investigates the effects of chicken soup on neutrophil chemotaxis in vitro. The results suggest that chicken soup inhibits neutrophil migration, which may contribute to its anti-inflammatory effects during upper respiratory tract infections. This provides a potential mechanism for the traditional use of chicken soup in treating cold symptoms.
https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-bone-broth – This WebMD article provides a general overview of the potential health benefits of bone broth, including improved joint health, gut health, and immune function. It highlights the presence of collagen, amino acids, and minerals in bone broth, which may contribute to these benefits. However, it's important to note that the article is not a primary research source and should be interpreted with caution.
https://bearworks.missouristate.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=4308&context=theses – This Missouri State University thesis replicated findings on migraine-related nociception in rats, confirming gender differences and microbiota changes. Dietary inclusion of enriched chicken bone broth inhibited nociceptive responses to migraine triggers, supporting previous findings. However, the evidence is limited by the thesis format and lack of peer review.