Are Beef Organs Keto?

 

If you're on a keto diet, beef organs should be on your radar. Organ meat is low in carbs, packed with high-quality protein, and loaded with nutrients—all of which can help you thrive on your low-carb journey.

 

 

Article jumplinks:

 

What is the keto diet?

Are beef organs keto-friendly?

What organ meats can you eat on keto?

How do beef organs support ketosis?

How to incorporate beef organs in the keto lifestyle

Are beef organs safe to consume?

Try the best beef organ supplements

If you're serious about thriving on keto, our beef organ supplement will take your low-carb lifestyle to the next level.

Find out why beef organs are a perfect fit for a low-carb, high-fat diet.

 

What Is the Keto Diet?

 

The ketogenic diet, or keto for short, is an eating plan based around low amounts of carbohydrates, high fat content, and moderate protein intake. The aim is to put your body into a metabolic state called ketosis. 

When you drastically reduce your carbohydrate intake (to less than 50 grams per day) and replace it with healthy fats, your body begins to burn fat instead of glucose for fuel. This starts the production of ketones. Ketones are organic compounds produced by the liver when the body breaks down fats for energy. They serve as an alternative fuel source for the brain and body when glucose is limited.

The ketone production process is called ketogenesis or ketosis. When you start a ketogenic diet, you want to achieve and maintain ketosis. By keeping your carb intake low and fat intake high, you can encourage your body to rely on ketones for energy, which suppresses appetite and promotes fat burning.

Ketosis has been linked to multiple health benefits, such as:

1. Weight loss
2. Improved blood sugar control
3. Increased mental clarity and focus
4. Reduced inflammation
5. Improved heart health
6. Potential neuroprotective benefits
7. Increased energy levels
8. Reduced acne

To help you better understand what a ketogenic diet looks like, let's take a closer look at the types of foods that promote ketosis and those that should be avoided.

 

What Types of Food Are Keto-Friendly (And What Should I Avoid)?

 

The focus of the keto diet is on high-fat, moderate-protein, and low-carb food. By limiting your intake of carbohydrates, you can achieve and maintain ketosis. 

Here are the foods that promote ketosis:

• Healthy fats: olive oil, avocado oil, coconut oil, butter, ghee, and MCT oil
• Low-carb vegetables: leafy greens, broccoli, cauliflower, zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus
• Meat and poultry: beef, pork, lamb, chicken, and turkey
• Fatty fish: salmon, mackerel, sardines, and anchovies
• Whole eggs
• Full-fat dairy: cheese, heavy cream, and full-fat yogurt
• Nuts and seeds: almonds, walnuts, macadamia nuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds
• Low-carb fruits (in moderation): strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, blueberries, avocado, coconut, olives, lemon, lime, tomatoes

Foods to avoid on a keto diet include:

• Grains and starches: wheat, rice, pasta, bread, cereal, and corn
• Sugary foods and beverages: soda, fruit juice, candy, ice cream, and baked goods
• Legumes: beans, lentils, and peas 
• High-carb fruits: bananas, apples, oranges, and grapes
• Starchy vegetables: potatoes, sweet potatoes, and carrots
• Low-fat dairy products: skim milk, low-fat yogurt, and reduced-fat cheese
• Processed foods: packaged snacks, crackers, and convenience meals
• Sugar-free diet foods (they contain sugar alcohols that can disrupt ketosis)

If you need fresh ideas for your keto meal plan, or are just starting out, our free keto cookbook will come in handy. From satisfying breakfasts to indulgent desserts, these 80 easy-to-follow recipes will help you stay on track and enjoy the benefits of a low-carb lifestyle.

The stars of our delicious keto recipes are beef organs, of course.

 

How Do Beef Organs Support Ketosis?

 

Beef organs are a perfect fit for the keto diet. Organ meats, also known as offal or variety meats, are nutrient-dense animal organs. People of different cultures have consumed them for generations because of their incredible nutrient profile, unique flavors, and the fact that they're often more affordable than muscle meat.

But what makes beef organs such a great choice for those following a ketogenic diet? 

 

Low Carbohydrate Content

 

Low carbohydrate levels are one of the most important aspects of the keto diet. Beef organs are naturally low in carbs, making them perfect for maintaining ketosis. When you minimize your intake of carbohydrates, you can keep your body in a fat-burning state and reap the benefits of the keto lifestyle.

Here is the carbohydrate content found in 100 grams of raw beef organs, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA):

• Beef liver contains 3.89 g of carbs.
• Beef tongue has 3.68 g of carbs.
• Beef kidneys have 0.29 g of carbs.
• Beef heart contains 0.14 g of carbs.
• Beef pancreas, tripe, spleen, and thymus do not contain any amount of carbs.

Discover the power of beef thymus for your keto journey: with zero carbs and a wealth of immune-boosting nutrients, our beef thymus supplement is a game-changer. These capsules will help you stay true to your low-carb lifestyle and supercharge your well-being.

 

 

 

 

High Protein Content

 

Beef organs are an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is essential for building and maintaining muscle mass. Protein also keeps you feeling full and satisfied, reducing cravings and helping you manage weight. 

The protein found in organ meats is highly bioavailable—your body can easily absorb and use it.

We’ve consulted the USDA again, and here’s how much protein there is in 100 grams of fresh beef organs:

• Beef liver contains 20.4 g of protein, making it one of the most protein-rich organs.
• Bovine heart packs 17.7 g of protein. The heart is an excellent source of CoQ10, a powerful antioxidant that supports cardiovascular health, and a great addition to your keto meal plan.
• Beef kidneys contain 17.4 g of protein per 100-gram serving. 
• 100 g of fresh beef spleen packs around 18.3 g of protein. The spleen is also a good source of iron, which is essential for oxygen transport throughout the body and for maintaining energy levels.
• 100 g of raw pancreas contains 15.7 g of protein. While slightly lower than other organ meats, beef pancreas still provides a significant amount of protein. This organ is also a good source of digestive enzymes, which can support healthy digestion and nutrient absorption on your keto diet.
• Beef tongue is also pretty high in protein: it contains 14.9 g per 100-gram serving. 
• Beef tripe and thymus are reasonably high in protein. Both organ meats pack around 12 grams of protein. 

Moderate to High Fat Content

 

Beef organs fit perfectly into the high-fat intake requirements of the keto diet. Organ meats contain a mix of healthy fats, including omega-3 fatty acids and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA). Unlike unhealthy trans fats and refined oils, these fats can help keep you in ketosis, maintain energy production, and support overall health.

The pancreas, tongue, and thymus are the fattiest cow organs. Here’s a quick breakdown of beef organ fat content:

• Beef thymus: 20.4 g of fat
• Beef pancreas: 18.6 g of fat
• Tongue: 16.1 g of fat
• Beef liver: 3.64 g of fat
• Tripe: 3.69 g of fat
• Heart: 3.94 g of fat
• Kidneys: 3.09 g of fat
• Spleen: 3 g of fat

Beef organs from grass-fed animals tend to have a more favorable fat profile. A 2019 review found that “grass-based diets can significantly improve the fatty acid (FA) composition and antioxidant content of beef.” This results in higher levels of beneficial compounds such as conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants.

We source beef organ meat from grass-fed and grass-finished cattle raised on New Zealand's lush pastures to create the highest quality and most nutrient-dense beef organ supplement. 

All our keto products have a rich nutrient profile sourced from premium grass-fed beef organs. We want to give you a convenient and powerful way to supercharge your low-carb lifestyle with the vitamins, minerals, and amino acids your body craves.

 

High Levels of Vitamins, Minerals, and Essential Nutrients

 

When you're on a keto diet, your body is running on fat for fuel, so you have to make sure you're getting all the key nutrients to support your overall health. Bovine organs are a rich source of vitamins (including water-soluble and fat-soluble vitamins), minerals, and amino acids. 

The liver, for example, is an exceptional source of vitamin A, B vitamins, and iron, while the heart is a great source of coenzyme Q10. The pancreas is a rich source of digestive enzymes, which support healthy digestion and nutrient absorption support healthy digestion and nutrient absorption, ensuring you get the most out of your keto-friendly meals. Kidneys are an excellent source of selenium and vitamin B12, supporting immune function, nerve function, and other important bodily functions. 

The best way to incorporate beef kidneys into your keto diet without preparing and cooking the organ is to take our kidney supplements. With every capsule, you can ensure that your body is getting a broad spectrum of essential nutrients to support your health.

 

"If you are on carnivore or even Keto diet these are the best supplement you can take, sometimes organs are hard to get or some people just don’t like the taste, this is the next best thing. I have been taking these since I switched up my diet in 2019. Don’t take a multivitamin, take some of these products you are getting more vitamins and mineral from organs then anything else."

—Tony Brunetti

 

What Types of Organ Meats Can You Eat on Keto?

 

For a keto-friendly diet, beef organs fit the bill. Most beef organs are naturally low in carbs and high in protein and healthy fats, which is exactly what you need to bolster your ketogenic diet the right way.

Here's a list of keto-friendly beef organs you can enjoy:

1. Liver
2. Heart
3. Kidney
4. Tongue
5. Bone marrow
6. Pancreas
7. Spleen
8. Thymus
9. Tripe

How to Incorporate Beef Organs in a Keto Lifestyle

 

If you're following a ketogenic diet and looking to supercharge your meals with nutrient-dense ingredients, look no further than beef organs. It may seem daunting at first, but once you give these oft-overlooked cuts a chance, you'll be enjoying the benefits of organ meats in no time.

Here are a few tips and tricks on how to incorporate beef organs into your ketogenic diet:

1. If you're new to eating beef organ meat, begin with liver or heart. They have a milder taste than other organs. This will help you gradually adjust to the strong flavor profiles of organ meats.
2. To make the transition easier, mix ground liver or heart with regular ground beef in your favorite keto recipes, such as burgers or meatballs. This will help you get used to the taste and reap the nutritional benefits of offal while still enjoying familiar dishes.
3. Organ meats can be prepared in many ways: sautéing, grilling, or slow cooking are only some of them. Feel free to experiment with different cooking techniques to find the most appealing way to enjoy variety meats.
4. Organ meat consumption is a fantastic way to practice nose-to-tail eating, which means using all parts of the animal. This approach reduces food waste and helps you gain a broader spectrum of nutrients that support optimal health.

Variety is key to a well-rounded and sustainable keto lifestyle, so don't be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you.

If you're struggling with the taste or texture of bovine organs, try high-quality beef organ dietary supplements. Our convenient capsules provide the same nutrients found in whole organ meats, without the need for extensive preparation or an acquired taste.

 

Are Beef Organs Safe to Consume?

 

Organ meats are generally safe to eat. Health experts recommend adding offal to your diet because of their impressive nutritional profile. 

There are some potential health risks associated with organ meats: 

• Beef brain and spinal cord consumption may pose a risk of transmitting Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE), also known as "mad cow disease." Unless you're absolutely certain of the source, avoid eating these organ parts.
• Bovine liver and kidneys are high in purines. This can elevate uric acid levels and may lead to or worsen gout.
• Beef brain and liver contain high levels of cholesterol, which may be a concern for people with cardiovascular disease.
• As the liver and kidneys filter toxins from the body, they may accumulate higher levels of toxins, such as heavy metals or pesticides, if the animal was exposed to these substances.
• The liver is exceptionally high in vitamin A. In excessive amounts, consuming beef liver may cause congenital disabilities, especially in pregnant women.
• Some people may have allergies or sensitivities to specific proteins found in common organ meats.
• Certain medications such as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) may interact with the high levels of tyramine found in some organ meats, potentially causing a dangerous spike in blood pressure.

To get the most out of beef organs while minimizing potential risks, always opt for high-quality, grass-fed, pasture-raised beef organs. If you have any existing health conditions, such as gout, heart disease, or kidney issues, talk to your doctor before adding organ meats to your diet. They may recommend how much you can consume daily or weekly. 

Once you have the go-ahead from your doctor, try our premium beef organ supplement. We source our meat from grass-fed cattle raised on pristine New Zealand pastures, so you know you will receive the concentrated goodness of high-quality organ meats.

 

 

Try the Best Beef Organ Supplements

 

In a world where the standard American diet often falls short on nutrients and protein, our organ meat supplements swoop in to save the day. We've got a power-packed blend of nutrient-dense organs like liver, heart, kidney, pancreas, spleen, thymus, and even bone marrow and trachea. 

At One Earth Health, we source our offal from small family farms where the cattle roam freely on lush, green pastures. No sketchy additives or artificial junk here—just pure, unadulterated goodness packed into easy-to-swallow capsules.

When you incorporate our grass-fed, pasture-raised beef organ supplements into your daily routine, you'll be giving your body the building blocks it needs to optimize bodily functions, from energy production and muscle mass maintenance to brain function and cardiovascular health. Our supplements are just as good as (if not better than) the big names such as Ancestral Supplements and Heart & Soil. Except that we're all about delivering top-notch quality without the gimmicks or the hefty price tag.

Want to reap the benefits of nose-to-tail nutrition and stay true to your keto lifestyle? One Earth Health has your back with the best grass-fed beef organ supplements around, packed with essential nutrients, protein, and good fats, with a low-carb profile to boot. 

Give your body the nutritional high-five it deserves and join the One Earth Health family today.

 

Beef organs FAQ

What meat isn't keto-friendly?

 

Processed meats are not keto-friendly. These include hot dogs, sausages, and deli meats that contain added sugars, fillers, and preservatives. These meats often have higher carbohydrate content and may contain inflammatory compounds that can hinder your progress on a keto diet. Stick to grass-fed, pasture-raised beef, poultry, and organ meats for optimal nutrient density and minimal exposure to harmful additives.

 

Can you eat unlimited meat on keto?

 

While meat is a staple of the keto diet, a balanced approach is recommended. Consider your individual dietary preferences and needs, and focus on consuming high-quality, nutrient-dense meats, vegetables, and other keto-friendly foods. Stay mindful of your overall calorie and fat intake, as consuming too much meat may lead to exceeding your daily calorie requirements and potentially hindering weight loss efforts.

 

Can you eat too much beef on keto?

 

It is possible to eat too much of any food, even on a keto diet; even beef. Beef is an excellent source of protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients such as vitamin B6, zinc, and iron. When you consume excessive amounts of beef, this may lead to overconsumption of calories and saturated fats. The more calories you consume, the greater your cholesterol levels and risk of heart disease. 

 

Is keto tough on the liver?

 

While a well-formulated keto diet is generally safe for most individuals, those with pre-existing liver conditions or liver-specific health concerns should consult their healthcare provider before starting the diet. 

The liver plays a crucial role in the body's metabolic processes, including the production of ketones during ketosis. During the initial stages of the keto diet, the liver is put under more stress as it adapts to the increased demand for ketone production and the processing of higher amounts of dietary fats. The liver is also responsible for converting stored fat into ketones, which can be taxing on the organ, particularly if there are underlying liver issues or if the diet is not properly balanced with essential nutrients.

 

How to get into ketosis in 24 hours?

 

It is possible to achieve ketosis within 24 hours, but you may need to adhere to a very low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet. To accelerate the process, consider the following tips:

• Minimize your carbohydrate intake to 20-30 grams per day. Focus on low-carb vegetables and eliminate high-carb foods.
• Increase your consumption of healthy fats such as olive oil, avocado, and grass-fed butter to meet your daily calorie needs.
• Include moderate amounts of protein from grass-fed beef, poultry, and organ meats.
• Engage in intermittent fasting or prolonged periods of fasting to deplete glycogen stores and promote ketone production.
• Supplement with MCT oil or exogenous ketones to help boost ketone levels and support the transition into ketosis.

While rapid ketosis is possible, it’s more important to focus on long-term sustainability and overall health when you adopt a ketogenic lifestyle. 

 

Who should not eat organ meat?

 

If you fall under any of the following groups, you should consult your doctor before consuming organ meats:

• If you have pre-existing health conditions such as gout or kidney-specific nutrient imbalances.
• If you have a history of cholesterol-related health issues or metabolic disorders, you may need to monitor your intake of organ meats due to their high content of essential vitamins, minerals, and saturated fats.
• If you have compromised immune health or autoimmune conditions, be cautious when introducing new foods, including organ meats.

Does keto affect fatty liver?

 

A well-formulated ketogenic diet may have a positive impact on fatty liver disease by promoting weight loss, reducing inflammation, and improving metabolic health markers. The high-fat, moderate protein diet encourages the body to burn fat for fuel, which can help reduce the accumulation of fat in the liver. 

Focus on consuming healthy fats from grass-fed meat, nuts, and seeds, while minimizing exposure to toxins and processed foods. You should also consult a healthcare professional to make sure that the keto diet is appropriate for your specific liver health needs.

 

Is the keto diet hard on kidneys?

 

The ketogenic diet, when followed correctly, is not inherently hard on healthy kidneys. The high intake of animal proteins, including grass-fed organ meats, may increase the workload on the kidneys, particularly if you consume them in excess. Those with pre-existing kidney issues or compromised kidney function may want to consult their healthcare provider before starting the diet. Stay well-hydrated, monitor kidney-specific nutrients, and ensure an adequate balance of essential vitamins and minerals to support your kidney health while on the keto diet.

 

What is the hardest part about keto?

 

One of the most challenging aspects of the keto diet is the strict limitation of carbohydrates, which can lead to the "keto flu" during the initial adaptation phase. Symptoms may include fatigue, brain fog, and digestive issues as the body adjusts to using fat for fuel. Try to maintain a balanced intake of essential minerals, stay hydrated, and ensure adequate fiber intake to help mitigate these side effects. 

Another difficulty is the need to carefully track macronutrient ratios and monitor food intake to ensure that you remain in a state of ketosis. This can be time-consuming and requires diligence.

 

What are the side effects of the keto diet?

 

There are several side effects you may experience when you start your ketogenic journey. They include:

1. The "keto flu." This can cause fatigue, headaches, and digestive issues during the initial adaptation phase. 
2. Some people who adhere to the keto diet long-term may suffer from nutrient deficiencies. This happens when you don’t properly plan your diet, so you restrict certain food groups and limit the intake of vital nutrients.
3. Constipation. This may happen due to the reduced intake of fiber-rich foods. 
4. Some people may experience elevated cholesterol levels or kidney stones due to the high intake of saturated fats and animal proteins. 

Consult a healthcare professional and ensure an adequate intake of nutrient-dense foods to minimize potential side effects and support overall health while following the keto diet.

 

How can organ meats support brain health on a keto diet?

 

Organ meats, particularly the liver and heart, are nutrient powerhouses that can support brain health and cognitive function. They are an important part of a well-formulated ketogenic diet. These organ meats are rich in essential nutrients, such as omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, and trace minerals such as selenium, zinc, and copper—all of which play crucial roles in maintaining optimal brain function and protecting against oxidative stress and inflammation.

The high-quality protein and essential amino acids found in organ meats also contribute to the production of neurotransmitters. Neurotransmitters are brain chemicals vital for proper brain communication and mental clarity. The healthy fats in organ meats, such as stearic acid, can support the integrity of brain cell membranes and facilitate the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, further promoting brain health.

If you want to provide your body and brain with the necessary building blocks for optimal cognitive performance while following a keto diet, bovine organs are an excellent option. 

 

Resources

 

FoodData Central. (n.d.). https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/

 

Daley, C. A., Abbott, A., Doyle, P. S., Nader, G. A., & Larson, S. (2010). A review of fatty acid profiles and antioxidant content in grass-fed and grain-fed beef. Nutrition Journal, 9, 10. https://doi.org/10.1186/1475-2891-9-10