Why might someone feel unusual after drinking bone broth?
Written by
Leilani Ibeh
Reviewed by
Prof. Benjamin Murphy, Ph.D.If you feel anything out of the ordinary after drinking bone broth, it usually means your body has been adjusting to the nutrient-dense broth. Reactions can range from digestive discomfort nausea, headache, or fatigue. What causes these to happen? In general, they can all be attributed to three main causes: histamine intolerance, amount of sodium, or too much nutrients. Understanding the processes allows you to take appropriate action.
Histamine Response
- Long simmering develops histamine in broth
- Triggers headaches flushing or nasal congestion
- Those with DAO enzyme deficiency react strongest
Sodium Sensitivity
- Store bought broth contains 500-800mg sodium per cup
- Causes water retention and blood pressure spikes
- Homemade versions allow better sodium control
Nutrient Adjustment
- Concentrated minerals cause temporary detox symptoms
- May include fatigue or mild digestive upset
- Typically resolves within 3-5 days of consistent use
Make strategic modifications to relieve discomfort. Begin with a small 4oz (118mL) serving every other day. When purchasing broths, opt for chicken or fish broths, as they are generally lower in histamine than beef broths. If using a store-bought broth, dilute it 50% with water (1 part broth to 1 part water). Stay hydrated with electrolytes-balanced water between servings.
Modifications to how preparation will drastically mitigate reaction risks. Simmer broth for 4-6 hours instead of 24 hours to limit histamine content. Limit vinegar to 1 tbsp per gallon of broth in a moderate application. Skim off all fat, as it can be a potential place for bacteria to accumulate. Chill the broth immediately after cooking to prevent the spread of bacteria.
Particular circumstances require special considerations - for instance, individuals with mast cell disorder should exercise caution when consuming bone broth altogether, autoimmune patients should monitor their inflammatory markers, and pregnant women should discontinue use if they are experiencing a reaction to it. Always record your symptoms in a food journal so you can identify any patterns that emerge.
Read the full article: 7 Powerful Benefits Bone Broth Revealed
