Abstract

Background: Gastrointestinal symptoms are common in the Australian population and can negatively affect quality of life. Bone broth has traditionally been consumed as a nourishing food and naturally contains collagen-derived amino acids including glycine, proline and glutamine, which are being investigated for their role in supporting digestive health and gut barrier function.

Objective: To evaluate the tolerability and effectiveness of Broth + Co Beef Bone Broth Powder in Australian adults experiencing gastrointestinal disturbances.

Methods: This Australian single-arm clinical study enrolled 30 adults with moderate lower gastrointestinal symptoms over a 12-week period, comprising a 3–4 week run-in followed by an 8-week intervention. Participants consumed Broth + Co Beef Bone Broth Powder daily. Outcomes were assessed using validated gastrointestinal symptom questionnaires, the Bristol Stool Chart, IBS Quality of Life Questionnaire and intestinal permeability testing.

Results: Daily consumption of Broth + Co Beef Bone Broth Powder was associated with statistically significant improvements in lower gastrointestinal symptoms, including constipation, diarrhoea, urgency, flatulence and abdominal pain, together with improvements in upper gastrointestinal symptoms including indigestion, heartburn, regurgitation and nausea. Stool consistency, frequency and regularity also improved. Participants reported significant improvements in quality of life, including emotional wellbeing, sleep, energy, physical functioning, diet and social interactions. Among participants with elevated intestinal permeability at baseline, Lactulose Recovery and Mannitol Recovery improved by 33%, while the Lactulose:Mannitol Ratio improved by 38%. More than 80% of participants regained tolerance to FODMAP-containing foods, with approximately one-third also regaining tolerance to gluten, dairy, acidic foods, spicy foods, eggs and fried foods.

Conclusion: These findings suggest that daily consumption of Broth + Co Beef Bone Broth Powder may support digestive wellbeing, gut barrier function and quality of life in adults experiencing gastrointestinal discomfort. Further controlled clinical studies are warranted to confirm these findings.