While chicken broth (without the meat) and marine collagen capsules can both contribute to gut health, it’s important to understand their individual benefits within the context of the GAPS diet.

Chicken broth, especially when made from bones, is a cornerstone of the GAPS diet due to its rich content of collagen, gelatine, amino acids (like glycine, proline, and glutamine), and essential minerals. Gelatine, a cooked form of collagen, is particularly valued for its ability to help heal and seal the gut lining. The amino acids in broth, such as glycine and proline, also play a crucial role in repairing the gut wall and maintaining its integrity. Additionally, bone broth is a source of readily absorbable minerals that support various bodily functions, including gut health.

Marine collagen capsules primarily provide hydrolysed collagen peptides, which are easily absorbed by the body. Marine collagen, being rich in type I collagen, can support the health of the gut lining and may help improve tight junctions due to the presence of amino acids like glycine and proline. Some studies suggest that collagen peptides can help reduce intestinal permeability.

However, marine collagen capsules do not contain gelatine or the same spectrum of minerals found in chicken broth. The GAPS diet often recommends starting with meat stock (a shorter-cooked broth) in the initial stages, highlighting the importance of the specific nutrient profile of broth for individuals with sensitive digestive systems. The synergistic effect of collagen, gelatine, amino acids, and minerals in broth is considered crucial for the comprehensive gut-healing approach of the GAPS diet.

Therefore, while marine collagen capsules can be a beneficial supplement to increase collagen intake and support gut health, they may not fully replicate all the benefits of chicken broth (without meat) in the GAPS diet, particularly the provision of gelatine and a wide range of minerals. Many GAPS practitioners emphasise the importance of homemade broth as a foundational element for restoring the gut microbiome and healing the gut wall.

In conclusion, while the combination of chicken broth (without meat) and marine collagen capsules can contribute to the goals of the GAPS diet, relying solely on this combination would not provide the full spectrum of nutrients and benefits that traditional GAPS broth consumption offers, for restoring the gut microbiome and healing the gut wall to maintain tight junctions.