South Korean doctor warns bone broth may hinder calcium absorption

South Korean physician Kim Min Sun has issued a warning regarding certain beverages that may negatively impact bone health despite popular belief. Specifically, the doctor addressed the misconception that bone broth is a primary source of calcium.

According to Dr. Kim, bone broth contains very low levels of calcium compared to other sources like milk, eggs, fish, or nuts. For instance, 100ml of bone broth contains approximately 2mg of calcium, whereas 200ml of milk provides 200mg. Furthermore, the calcium in bone broth is in an inorganic form that is difficult for the body to absorb, particularly in children and the elderly.

Dr. Kim noted that excessive consumption of bone broth may actually reduce the body's calcium absorption efficiency due to its relatively high phosphorus content. The sweetness often associated with bone broth is attributed to a combination of glutamine from meat and bones with salt, creating a flavor similar to monosodium glutamate, rather than high nutritional density.