Homemade collagen?! Collagen is the king of proteins in our body – important for skin, joints, hair, nails and even the gut. But after the age of 25 (yes, that early!), its natural production begins to decline, leading to wrinkles, less elastic skin and joints that creak like old parquet. This is where collagen comes in. bone broth, a true natural elixir, full of hydrolyzed collagen, glucosamine, hyaluronic acid, and minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus.

Unlike supplements that often end up in your stomach (and your budget), homemade collagen from soup is easily absorbed by your body. The result? Glowing skin, more flexible joints, and hair that won't be looking for a way out in the brush. And what's even better: it costs as much as a bag of vegetables and a few beef bones - practically pennies compared to "bioactive" creams that promise miracles but only deliver on pretty packaging design.

The benefits of homemade collagen at a glance:

• Shiny skin: Natural collagen types I, II and III support skin elasticity and moisture.
• Flexible joints: Glucosamine and hyaluronic acid reduce pain and improve mobility.
• Strong hair and nails: Say goodbye to brittle nails and weak hair.
• Better digestion: The gelatin in the soup soothes the intestinal mucosa, which improves overall well-being.

Homemade Collagen Recipe: Simple but Effective – Like Grandma's Kitchen

Prepare a cup of this natural elixir that will give your body what it needs, without unnecessary chemicals or marketing gimmicks. Here's everything you need:

Ingredients: Homemade collagen

• 1 large beef bone with some meat (or several chicken feet for extra collagen)
• 3 carrots, cut into pieces
• 2 parsley roots
• 1 celery root
• 2 large onions, cut into quarters
• 2 cloves garlic, peeled
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 sprig of fresh rosemary (or 1 teaspoon of dried)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (helps release minerals from bones)

Preparation process: Homemade collagen

1. 1. Bone preparation: Place the bones in a large pot or slow cooker. If they are beef, cut them open so that the marrow is visible – it is a real treasure trove of nutrients. Pour in enough water to completely cover the bones and add the apple cider vinegar.
   2. Slow cooking: Cook the soup on low heat for at least 12–24 hours (In a slow cooker, 24 hours is ideal.) Long cooking is key, as it allows the collagen, minerals, and gelatin to be released.
   3. Adding vegetables: 4 hours before the end of cooking, add the vegetables, garlic, bay leaf and rosemary. Season to taste.
   4. Straining: Strain the soup through a fine sieve. If desired, scoop out the marrow from the bones and return it to the soup for extra nutritional value.
   5. Storage: Pour into glass jars. Keeps in the refrigerator for up to 5 days and in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Taste tip: To spice up the flavor, add a tablespoon of miso paste, a pinch of turmeric, or fresh ginger for an Asian twist.

How to consume homemade collagen for best results?

For optimal effects, drink 100–200 ml of broth daily, best in the morning on an empty stomach or in the evening when digestion is calm. Heat the soup slightly (do not boil!) to preserve the delicate amino acids. You can drink it as a beverage, use it as a base for soups, or even add it to smoothies for those more adventurous days.

Pro tip: Homemade collagen

• If you don't have time to cook every day, prepare a larger quantity and freeze it in smaller portions - ideal for quick wellness moments.
• For extra nutritional power, try adding seaweed or a pinch of ground collagen from a quality source, although the broth works wonders on its own.

When can you expect results?

Don't expect to look like you're at the prom after two cups - although that would be wonderful. Regular consumption (3-4 weeks) brings noticeable changes:

• Skin: More toned, moisturized and radiant.
• Conclusions: Less pain and greater mobility.
• Hair and nails: Stronger and less brittle.
• Digestion: Feeling better and less bloating.

Why is homemade collagen better than supplements?

Besides being cheaper (the average price for a serving is less than €1!), homemade collagen is natural, free of artificial additives, and full of synergistic nutrients that are often missing from pills. Plus, preparing it is a real ritual – think of the smell of grandma’s kitchen wafting through your apartment while you create something that’s good for your body. and honey.

Conclusion: Tradition beats trends

Homemade collagen isn’t just another fad—it’s a centuries-old tradition that science has finally caught up with. Forget expensive serums and supplements that promise more than they deliver. Treat yourself to something that works from the inside out with a cup of this golden soup. It may not look like the commercials, but your skin, joints, and wallet will thank you. Who would have thought that the secret to eternal youth is in a pot you already have at home?

Share this recipe with someone who needs a little natural glow, and let us know how you like your homemade collagen soup in the comments!

FAQ: Everything you need to know about homemade collagen

1. What is homemade collagen and why is it better than supplements?

Homemade collagen is a natural elixir obtained by slow cooking bones and vegetables, which releases collagen, gelatin, amino acids and minerals. Unlike dietary supplements, which are often processed and expensive, homemade collagen is cheaper, natural and contains synergistic substances such as glucosamine and hyaluronic acid, which are more easily absorbed by the body. Plus, it is free of artificial additives – and smells like grandma’s kitchen!

2. How long does it take to see results from consuming bone broth?

Results depend on how regularly you use it, but most people notice the first changes after 3-4 weeks of daily use (100-200 ml per day). The skin becomes more radiant, joints less painful, and hair and nails stronger. Don't expect miracles overnight - this is not an Instagram filter, but a gradual process of rejuvenation from within.

3. Can I use other types of bones to make homemade collagen?

Of course! Beef bones are great because of their high collagen content, but chicken feet, turkey bones, or even fish bones (e.g. salmon) are also great choices. It’s important that the bones are of good quality and preferably organic, as they can accumulate toxins. If you have access to bones with marrow, even better – marrow is a real treasure trove of nutrients.

4. How do I store bone broth and how long does it last?

Store bone broth in glass jars in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze it in smaller portions (e.g., in ice cube trays) for quick thawing. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Warm it slightly before using, but do not boil it, to preserve the delicate nutrients.

5. Can I consume homemade collagen if I am a vegetarian or vegan?

Unfortunately, bone broth is an animal product, so it is not suitable for vegetarians or vegans. However, you can try alternative sources of collagen, such as plant-based supplements rich in vitamin C, zinc, and silicon, which stimulate the body's natural production of collagen. Algae or seaweed are also good additions to vegan diets.

6. Is homemade collagen safe for everyone?

Bone broth is safe and beneficial for most people. However, people with allergies to certain ingredients (such as celery or garlic) or those with medical conditions such as histamine intolerance should consult their doctor. Also, be aware of the quality of the ingredients – avoid bones from unverified sources.

7. How can I improve the taste of bone broth?

Bone broth is delicious on its own, but you can spice it up with additions like miso paste, fresh ginger, turmeric, soy sauce, or a dash of chili for those who like a little heat. Also try herbs like thyme or parsley for a fresh touch. When used as a base for dishes, it's great for risottos, stews, or sauces.

8. Can I eat bone broth every day?

Yes, consuming 100-200ml of bone broth per day is safe and recommended for optimal results. If you experience any digestive issues, reduce the amount or consult a nutritionist. The key is to listen to your body – and maybe even praise yourself when your skin starts to glow!

9. Why is apple cider vinegar important in making bone broth?

Apple cider vinegar helps release minerals and collagen from bones during cooking, acting as a natural “extractor.” Don’t worry, you won’t notice the vinegar flavor in the final broth, as it is neutralized during long-term cooking.

10. Can homemade collagen replace beauty treatments or supplements?

Homemade collagen is a great support for skin, joint, and hair health, but it's not a magic bullet. A combination of a healthy diet, hydration, sleep, and regular consumption of bone broth will yield better results than any expensive serum on its own. For specific skin concerns, such as deep wrinkles, consult a dermatologist.

Do you have any other questions about homemade collagen? Share them in the comments or try the recipe and let us know how you like it!