Bone Broth vs. Stock: Are They Really Different?

According to Ali Miller, R.D., L.D., CDE, "At this point, it is just syntax," she told mindbodygreen. That being said, there are some things to know about the, admittedly nuanced, difference between the two terms.

If you've ever made your own bone broth or stock, you probably know how much the two terms overlap. "Bone broth and stock are the same, as they extract the gelatin and collagen from bones so they are more gelatinous and viscous," explains Miller.

The benefits of bone broth are largely due to its collagen content. Two of the individual amino acids that make up collagen, glycine and glutamine, are what give it that extra kick to improve gut health, as they play a role in supporting the lining of the digestive tract. Bone broth also may lend benefits to hair, skin, and nail health, as collagen has independently been linked to those benefits.

Many (non-bone) broth recipes will also lean more heavily on aromatics and a mirepoix for flavor, whereas a bone broth, and a good stock, will have more animal products. According to Miller, this usually includes "the full carcass plus feet for chicken stock (aka chicken bone broth) or knuckles and marrow bones for beef stock (aka beef bone broth).

Given these nuanced distinctions, one thing is clear: The best way to get the most benefits may just be to make your own bone broth. Here are a few tips for making it at home:

The idea of drinking plain broth not super appealing? Check out these ideas for adding bone broth to your meals—and read up on why stressful times are the best times to add bone broth to your diet.