Soothing Bone Broth Recipe to Support Cancer Patients Through Treatment

What is Bone Broth?

Bone broth is made by simmering animal bones and connective tissue in water for an extended period of time - usually between 12-24 hours. This long cook time allows the bones and connective tissue to break down, releasing compounds like collagen, proline, glycine and glutamine into the cooking liquid.

The result is a soothing, nutrient-dense broth that has been valued for its therapeutic properties since ancient times. Many cultures around the world have used bone broth to support digestive health, immune function and more. Today, it's experiencing a resurgence in popularity as research uncovers its unique health benefits.

Why is Bone Broth Beneficial for Cancer Patients?

There are several reasons bone broth can be an excellent addition to the diet during cancer treatment:

1. Easy to digest

The nutrients in bone broth are delivered in a highly bioavailable, easy to absorb form. This makes bone broth gentle and tolerable for sensitive digestive systems, which is important during cancer treatment when side effects like nausea, vomiting and diarrhea are common.

2. Anti-inflammatory

The natural gelatin found in bone broth has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe intestinal inflammation and irritation. This may provide relief from chemotherapy side effects like mouth sores and GI upset.

3. Immune supporting

Bone broth contains nutrients like zinc, vitamin A and vitamin C that support immune health. With the immune system compromised during cancer treatment, bone broth provides nourishment to help fight infections.

4. Gut healing

Glycine and gelatin in bone broth promote gut integrity and healing of the intestinal mucosa. They also support healthy digestion and microbiome balance, which frequently gets disrupted during cancer treatment.

5. Promotes hydration

The liquid format makes bone broth an easy way to stay hydrated, which is crucial for patients dealing with vomiting, diarrhea, malnutrition and low appetite.

What Bones Work Best for Broth?

You can make broth from a variety of animal bones, including chicken, beef, turkey, lamb and fish. Each offers a slightly different nutrient profile. For cancer patients, chicken or beef bones are often good choices for their high collagen content.

Other bones to consider are knuckle and neck bones, oxtail, ribs, feet and marrow bones. Using a mix of bones and connective tissues ensures your broth contains a diversity of nutrients and compounds for maximum healing benefits.

Tips for Choosing Bones:

• Opt for bones from pasture-raised, organic or grass-fed animals when possible.
• Ask your butcher for leftover packages of mixed bones for broth.
• Save bones from your own meals to stockpile for broth (freeze until ready to use).

Recipe: Healing Bone Broth for Cancer Patients

This all-purpose bone broth recipe can be tailored to your needs and tastes during cancer treatment. Feel free to modify bone types, cooking times and ingredients as desired.

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs beef marrow and knuckle bones
• 2 chicken carcasses
• 2 onions, chopped
• 3 carrots, chopped
• 3 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 head garlic, halved
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 bunch fresh parsley
• 1 bunch fresh thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tablespoon whole black peppercorns
• Filtered water to cover bones

Instructions:

1. Place bones, onions, carrots, celery and garlic in a large stockpot. Add apple cider vinegar and enough water to fully cover.
2. Bring to a boil and then reduce to a simmer. Skim off any scum that rises to the top.
3. Add parsley, thyme, bay leaves and peppercorns. Partially cover with lid and simmer for 24 hours, adding more water as needed to keep bones covered.
4. After 24 hours, remove from heat and strain through a fine mesh sieve. Discard solids.
5. Allow broth to cool. Skim off any fat that solidifies on the top.
6. Transfer broth to storage containers and refrigerate up to 5 days or freeze for months.

How to Incorporate Bone Broth Into Your Cancer Diet

There are endless ways to enjoy soothing, nourishing bone broth during cancer treatment:

• Sip on plain broth as a snack, hydration or gut-soothing drink
• Include bone broth in soups, stews, gravies and risottos
• Use as a base for cooking grains like rice, quinoa or oatmeal
• Mix with herbs and spices to create a savory broth bowl meal
• Make bone broth popsicles to help soothe mouth or throat sores

Start with 1-2 cups per day and increase from there if desired. Pay attention to how your body responds to find your optimal amount.

Should You Have Any Concerns When Consuming Bone Broth?

Bone broth is likely safe for most people in normal food amounts, but there are a few precautions to keep in mind:

• Histamine content: Bones from chicken and fish are higher in histamines. Limit portion or avoid if histamine sensitivity is a concern.
• Oxalates: Broths made with spinach, beet greens, chard or celery may be higher in oxalates. Limit intake if you are prone to kidney stones.
• Sodium content: Broth made with salted bones or reduced down can be high in sodium. Opt for lower sodium options if this is a concern.

Talk to your cancer care team if you have any concerns about incorporating bone broth into your diet during treatment.

The Bottom Line

Bone broth is an age-old food that can provide concentrated nourishment and soothing comfort during cancer treatment. Consider making homemade bone broth or trying it from a quality brand. Start slowly and tune into how your body responds. Many find bone broth helps provide strength and fortify the body against the challenges of cancer and cancer therapies.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.