You've probably seen those colorful cartons in the grocery store or maybe a Targeted ad on your feed. Dr. Kellyann bone broth is everywhere. It’s the "liquid gold" that’s supposed to melt fat, erase wrinkles, and basically fix your life. Honestly, though? Most people are using it all wrong, or they're expecting it to be a magic potion that replaces actual lifestyle changes.
It’s not magic. It’s just very old-school nutrition with a modern, high-end price tag.
Dr. Kellyann Petrucci, a naturopathic doctor who’s basically the face of this movement, didn’t invent bone broth. People have been simmering bones for centuries. But she did turn it into a streamlined system. Her specific brand focuses on high-protein, low-carb formulations that are keto and paleo-friendly. You get about 15 grams of protein per serving, which is actually quite a lot for a cup of liquid.
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The Real Deal with Weight Loss
Here is the thing. Drinking bone broth isn't going to make you lose weight just by existing in your stomach. The reason Dr. Kellyann bone broth works for weight loss in her "21-Day Diet" is because of the "mini-fasting" structure. You’re essentially cutting out grains, sugar, and dairy for five days and then doing two days of modified fasting where you mostly just drink the broth.
It’s calorie restriction. Plain and simple.
But it’s a smarter way to restrict calories. If you just drink water, you feel like garbage. If you drink a broth that has 15g of protein and 5.5g to 10g of collagen, you’re hitting your satiety receptors. It tricks your brain into thinking it’s had a meal. Plus, the glycine in the broth helps steady your blood sugar. No sugar crashes means no "hangry" episodes at 3 PM.
Why Your Gut Cares About Collagen
Most of the hype around Dr. Kellyann's products centers on "gut healing." If you’ve ever heard the term "leaky gut," this is where bone broth supposedly steps in. The gelatin and collagen in the broth are rich in amino acids like proline and glutamine.
In theory, these help "seal" the lining of your digestive tract.
While some critics point out that peer-reviewed human studies specifically on Dr. Kellyann's brand are slim, the individual components—collagen and gelatin—have a decent track record in clinical settings for supporting mucosal integrity. It’s why your grandma gave you chicken soup when you were sick. She was onto something.
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Liquid vs. Powder: The Great Debate
One of the biggest points of confusion for newcomers is whether to buy the cartons or the little individual powder packets.
- The Liquid Cartons: These are "ready to sip." They usually taste better—more like actual soup. They are slow-simmered and keep the nutrients in their most natural state. But they are heavy to carry and need to be refrigerated once you crack them open.
- The Powder Packets: These are basically dehydrated bone broth. Super convenient for travel or keeping in your desk at work. You just add hot water.
Kinda weirdly, some people report the powder can get "rock solid" if it sits in the cupboard too long or gets exposed to moisture. If you open a packet and it’s a brick, don't try to force it. Check the expiration. On the flip side, the liquid stuff sometimes feels a bit "watery" to those used to thick, homemade stocks that turn into jelly in the fridge. That’s because the shelf-stable cartons are processed differently to stay safe at room temperature.
What Nobody Tells You About the Ingredients
Check the label. It’s not just "bones and water."
Dr. Kellyann bone broth usually includes a "vegetable blend" with things like turmeric, ginger, and garlic. These aren't just for flavor. They’re anti-inflammatory. However, you should be aware that some of the powdered versions use "natural flavors" or stevia. If you are a purist, you might prefer the classic beef or chicken liquid over the flavored dessert-style collagen powders she sells.
Also, a quick heads-up: These products are high in sodium (usually around 260mg to 270mg per cup). While that's great for electrolytes during a fast, it might be a bit much if you’re watching your blood pressure.
Does It Actually Erase Wrinkles?
This is the "anti-aging" claim that gets everyone’s attention. The idea is that the collagen you drink will go straight to your face and fill in those crow's feet.
It doesn't work quite like that.
Your body breaks down collagen into amino acids and then sends them wherever they are needed most. Sometimes that's your skin. Sometimes it's your joints or your gut lining. You can't "spot-treat" wrinkles with broth. But, staying hydrated and getting enough protein (which provides the building blocks for your own collagen production) definitely doesn't hurt. Most people see a "glow" because they've stopped eating processed junk and started hydrating properly.
Common Pitfalls and Complaints
If you look at Better Business Bureau (BBB) ratings or Amazon reviews, you’ll see some recurring gripes.
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- Shipping Issues: People sometimes get the wrong flavor or find their subscription hard to cancel.
- Taste: It’s an acquired taste. If you're expecting it to taste like a salty bouillon cube, you'll be disappointed. It's more earthy and "health-focused."
- The "Gloop" Factor: If you don't whisk the powder well enough, you get clumps. Use a frother. Seriously, it changes the game.
How to Actually Use It
Don't just buy a box and hope for the best.
Start by replacing one snack a day with a cup of broth. It's only about 45 to 90 calories depending on the version. If you want to go full "Dr. Kellyann," follow her 80/20 rule. Eat clean (paleo-style) 80% of the time, and use the broth to "hedge" against overeating. Drink a cup before you go to a dinner party or a holiday event. It fills you up so you don't dive headfirst into the bread basket.
Actionable Next Steps
If you’re ready to see if the hype is real, don't go out and buy a 30-day supply immediately.
- Test the Taste: Buy a single carton of the Classic Chicken or Beef liquid first. Some people find the beef too "strong" and prefer the chicken.
- Check Your Salt: If you have high blood pressure, talk to your doctor. 270mg of sodium per cup adds up fast if you're drinking six cups a day on a "mini-fast."
- Get a Frother: If you go with the powder, a $10 handheld milk frother is the only way to get a smooth consistency.
- Watch the "Fasting" Days: If you're new to intermittent fasting, don't jump into a 2-day broth fast immediately. Try a 16:8 window first, using the broth as your "break-fast" meal.
Bone broth is a tool, not a miracle. It’s a high-quality protein source that makes healthy habits easier to stick to. If you use it to replace sugary snacks or as a bridge during fasting, you’ll likely feel the difference. Just don't expect your wrinkles to vanish overnight.