Bone Broth Fasting: Worth the Hype?

The Buzz

With the news of celebrities like Kourtney Kardashian fasting for 24 hours on bone broth alone, many moms might be wondering—should I try it too? Especially when her detox is followed up by glamorous photos in skimpy outfits and casual mentions of juggling motherhood and bone broth like it's no big deal.

It’s hard not to feel the pressure: sip bone broth, wear a thong, and bounce back like a celebrity. But for most of us—moms balancing kids, work, stress, and maybe a little sleep deprivation—that’s not the full picture.

Fasting Isn't New—But It’s Not One-Size-Fits-All

Fasting has ancient roots. Historically, it’s been used for spiritual clarity, gut rest, and health benefits. But in modern wellness culture, fasting often gets reduced to a tool for rapid weight loss or “cleaning up” after indulgent weekends.

There’s juice fasting, water fasting, lemon/cayenne/water cleanses, and now, bone broth fasting. It’s the new darling of detox trends. And while bone broth is a nutrient-rich liquid, fasting isn’t for everyone.

The Real Benefits of Bone Broth

Bone broth contains amino acids like glycine and proline, which support skin elasticity, liver detoxification, and gut repair. It's also packed with minerals like magnesium, phosphorus, and calcium, making it a therapeutic food for anyone healing from digestive issues or stress-induced burnout.

Bone broth can:

• Support gut healing (especially for leaky gut)

• Improve joint health

• Provide sustainable energy through protein

• Promote collagen production (for hair, skin, and nails)

• Help with hormone balance and liver detox

But should you fast on it? That’s a more nuanced discussion.

When Bone Broth Fasting Can Go Wrong

Here’s what doesn’t get discussed in mainstream coverage: Your body needs to be READY for fasting.

A full-body detox requires your digestive organs—liver, gallbladder, small and large intestines—to be functioning optimally. If you're constipated, bloated, or your liver is sluggish, those toxins won’t exit properly. Instead, they’ll get reabsorbed, stored in your tissues, or overload your liver further.

That’s why jumping into a bone broth fast without preparation can cause:

• Nausea or fatigue

• Headaches

• Diarrhea or constipation

• Hormonal imbalances

• Emotional irritability

Fasting isn't inherently bad—it just needs to be approached intentionally.

A Smarter Approach to Bone Broth for Moms

As a nutritionist, I don’t recommend most moms start with a 24-hour fast. Instead:

1. Incorporate bone broth slowly.
   Start with 1–2 cups a day, ideally replacing a meal or snack.

2. Pair it with real food.
   Enjoy it alongside steamed veggies, clean proteins, and healthy fats like avocado or coconut oil.

3. Monitor your digestion.
   Make sure you’re pooping regularly and your stomach doesn’t feel bloated or crampy. (Normal poop = Bristol chart 4 or 5.)

4. Boost your broth.
   Add flax, MCT oil, or grass-fed butter for sustained energy and satiety.

5. Hydrate well.
   Drink plenty of clean, filtered water throughout your day.

Where to Find Real Bone Broth

Look for high-quality sources:

• Farmers markets

• Local health food stores

• Brands with no gums, preservatives, or shelf-stable cartons

• Homemade (from grass-fed, hormone-free bones)

Avoid:
Powdered “broth” with guar gum, artificial flavorings, or plastic packaging.

Bone Broth vs. Celebrity Detox Culture

While it’s tempting to follow celebrities, it’s more powerful to follow your body. Kourtney Kardashian may fast in a bikini for 24 hours, but your body might thrive with three nourishing meals and one comforting cup of bone broth.

Even Salma Hayek, who’s publicly praised bone broth, emphasizes holistic wellness over trends. At 50+, she glows because she avoids chemicals like Botox—not because she starves herself.

Enjoy Your Food, Not Just the Trend

Bone broth is a gift from grandma’s kitchen, not just a tool to drop pounds fast. It’s warm, soothing, nutrient-rich, and powerful for your health. But it should complement your lifestyle—not replace food or set unrealistic expectations.

If you’re a mom, the best goal isn’t to look like someone else—it’s to feel strong, energized, and well in your own body.

FAQs About Bone Broth Fasting

1. Is bone broth fasting safe for breastfeeding moms?
Generally not recommended unless under medical supervision. Nutrient needs are high during lactation.

2. Can bone broth help with bloating or gut issues?
Yes, especially when used consistently with an anti-inflammatory diet.

3. What time of day is best to drink bone broth?
Anytime! Many enjoy it in the morning or as a dinner replacement.

4. How long should a bone broth fast last?
Start with one meal a day replaced by broth. Only attempt full-day fasts with proper prep and guidance.

5. Can bone broth help with joint pain?
Yes, due to its collagen, glucosamine, and chondroitin content.

6. What’s the difference between bone broth and stock?
Bone broth is cooked longer (12–48 hours) and contains more minerals and gelatin.

Conclusion: Trust Your Gut—Literally and Figuratively

Bone broth is powerful. But no diet should ever make you feel less-than, stressed out, or starving. Use bone broth as nourishment, not punishment. And always, always honor your body’s needs—not Hollywood's version of wellness.