20 Surprising Health Benefits of Beef Organs

 

Organ meats are some of the most nutrient-dense foods on the planet. Beef organs can boost energy levels, improve brain function, and support overall health.


And that’s not all. Keep reading to discover why beef organs are so good for you.

 

20 Surprising Health Benefits of Beef Organs

 

Article jumplinks:

 

What is organ meat?

What are the health benefits of organ meats?

Which organ meats can you eat?

Organ meat vs muscle meat

Is it safe to eat organ meats?

What if I don’t like eating beef liver and organs?

Want to buy the best beef organ supplements?


For some, cooked organ meats may seem daunting. We created the best beef organ supplements to provide a convenient and approachable way to obtain all their nutrients and benefits. 

 

What Is Organ Meat?

 

Organ meat, also known as offal, is the internal organs of animals. The thought of eating organs may seem unusual to some people, but beef organs can be a vital part of a healthy, balanced diet. Many cultures around the world have recognized the nutritional value and delicious taste of these meats. 


Organ meat is a more sustainable and respectful approach to eating. When you use the whole animal, you are actively contributing to less food waste and making the most of the resources required to raise and process livestock. This approach aligns perfectly with the principles of regenerative agriculture and homesteading, which prioritize sustainable and holistic practices. 


Regenerative agriculture not only minimizes environmental impact but also promotes soil health and biodiversity, making it an environment-friendly choice. At One Earth Health, we support the long-term well-being of both the land and the animals raised upon it. That’s why we bring you the finest beef organ supplements on the market, ethically sourced from regenerative farms that nurture the earth and its inhabitants. 

 

What Are the Health Benefits of Organ Meats?

 

Organ meats offer a wide array of health benefits. From supporting brain function to promoting heart health, these often-overlooked cuts of meat are true nutritional powerhouses. 


Let’s take a look at this in-depth look at beef organs' health benefits.

 

One: Beef Organs Support Muscle Growth, Repair, And Maintenance 

 

Beef organs are a terrific source of protein and essential nutrients crucial for muscle growth, repair, and maintenance. These include iron, zinc, vitamin B12, and selenium. The liver is rich in folate and choline, while beef heart contains creatine and taurine—all of which support muscle health and function.

 

Two: Beef Organs Promote Brain Function And Cognitive Health

 

Beef organs are rich in vitamin B12, iron, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids, which support brain health function, memory, focus, and cognitive performance. Beef liver is incredibly rich in vitamin B12. Vitamin B12 plays a vital role in the formation of red blood cells, neurological function, and improved mood and cognitive performance. 


A 2008 study on “brain foods” found that alpha lipoic acid (ALA), which is found in abundance in beef liver, kidneys, and heart, improves memory deficits and reduces cognitive decay in people with Alzheimer’s disease.

 

Three: Offal Supports Joint Health And Reduces Inflammation

 

Beef organs are great for maintaining healthy joints. Beef kidneys and livers are loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins A and D, glucosamine, selenium, and zinc. These nutrients work together to support joint health by reducing inflammation, lubricating joints, and easing stiffness and discomfort. 


Beef bone marrow is an excellent source of glucosamine, a compound that's essential for keeping your joints in top shape. Glucosamine helps build and repair cartilage and it can also help reduce inflammation and ease joint pain. 

 

Grass fed beef bone marrow supplement by One Earth Health

Four: Beef Organs Enhance Red Blood Cell Formation

 

Beef liver, heart, and kidneys are natural allies against anemia. Beef liver is one of the best dietary sources of iron, vitamin B12, and folate which play crucial roles in red blood cell formation. They ensure adequate oxygen transport throughout the body, which replenishes red blood cell levels, promotes healthy circulation and alleviates fatigue.


Beef liver is a nutritional powerhouse. If you're not quite ready to dive into cooking with it, our grass-fed beef liver supplements are the perfect way to reap the benefits without the dirty work. 

 

Five: Offal Boosts Energy Production And Reduces Fatigue

 

Beef organ meats are energy powerhouses. Packed with coenzyme Q10, B vitamins, and iron, they fuel energy production, reduce fatigue, and boost vitality. 


A 2011 study explained that “the level of CoQ10 is the highest in organs with high rates of metabolism such as the heart, kidney, and liver, where it functions as an energy transfer molecule.” That means that CoQ10 from beef heart and liver helps cells produce energy.


Explore more of the health benefits of beef heart.

 

Six: Offal Strengthens The Immune System

 

If you’re looking to boost your immune system, an organ meat-oriented diet can help. Beef organs such as the liver, spleen, and thymus act as immune boosters: they are loaded with zinc, selenium, and vitamin A, fortifying the body’s defenses against infections. 


Beef spleen is an excellent source of iron. Iron helps your body produce red blood cells, which not only carry oxygen throughout your system but also help to fight off infections and diseases.


Read about the health benefits of bovine spleen.

 

Seven: Organ Meats Aid Wound Healing And Tissue Repair

 

Beef organs might be your go-to for a speedy recovery. Packed with zinc, vitamin A, and vitamin C, offal can promote cell growth, collagen formation, and immune function, ensuring that your body can bounce back stronger and faster. The beef trachea is a fantastic source of collagen, the protein crucial for maintaining and repairing connective tissues throughout your body.


Next time you need a healing boost, turn to beef liver, heart, or kidneys. You can find them in our premium grass-fed beef organ supplement. They offer a convenient way to harness offal’s rich nutrient content for optimal health and accelerated wound healing.

 

Eight: Beef Organs Support Healthy Blood Sugar Levels

 

Beef organs play a vital role in maintaining healthy blood sugar levels. They are rich in nutrients such as chromium, magnesium, and B vitamins, supporting insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism. Zhang, et. al. found that higher consumption of animal variety meats was associated with a lower risk of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which is linked to insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. 

 

Nine: Beef Organs Enhance Thyroid Function And Metabolism

 

Offal is dense in nutrients that support thyroid function and regulate metabolism. Here’s how:



Beef thymus is another great source of all the necessary nutrients for protecting your thyroid. Order our 100% grass-fed thyroid supplements and see for yourself.

 

Ten: Offal Protects From Oxidative Stress

 

Oxidative stress is the imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body, leading to cellular damage and potential health issues. Packed with antioxidants like selenium, CoQ10, and alpha-lipoic acid, beef organs are your body's frontline defenders from oxidative damage. These nutrients work tirelessly to neutralize free radicals and keep your cells healthy and thriving. 

 

Eleven: May Help Prevent Certain Types Of Cancer

 

Beef organs potentially protect against certain cancers such as breast, colorectal, and prostate cancers. They're rich in conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) and selenium, compounds that have demonstrated cancer-preventive properties. CLA inhibits the growth and spread of cancer cells, while selenium acts as an antioxidant, neutralizing harmful free radicals that can damage cells and lead to cancer development.


Regular consumption of these nutrient-rich organ meats may help bolster the body's natural defenses against cancerous growths and promote cellular health. Learn how to incorporate offal into your diet and how to prepare delicious, nutritious beef organs.

 

Twelve: Beef Organs Support Liver Function And Detoxification 

 

Beef organs support human liver function through an abundance of choline, vitamin A, and B vitamins. These nutrients help prevent fatty liver disease and aid detoxification. The selenium in kidneys supports liver enzymes and B12 helps keep your liver up and running, while beef heart’s CoQ10 protects it from oxidative damage. 


Now is the time to order our grass-fed bovine kidney supplement and give your liver the nourishment it deserves.


"I was having problems with histamine especially after eating red meat and dairy. Someone suggested this Beef Kidneys from One Earth. I have been taking it about a month and a half and am seeing great results so far. My sneezing attacks have greatly diminished and some days don't sneeze at all. I am very happy with the results and plan on taking it for another month."


—Vivian Lechner

 

Grass fed beef kidney supplement by One Earth Health

Thirteen: Beef Organs Support Skin Health And Collagen Production

 

Your skin needs plenty of collagen to maintain its youthful appearance, elasticity, and resilience. As we age, our natural collagen production declines, leading to the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin. The bovine heart is a rich source of collagen. You can also find collagen and elastin in the tripe, trachea, and beef tongue. Beef organs are bursting with zinc, which is crucial for collagen synthesis and skin repair. 


Order our grass-fed beef collagen capsules and don't miss out on these nutrient-dense skin-supporting superstars. Packed with chondroitin sulfate, glucosamine, hyaluronic acid, and collagen, our grass-fed beef trachea supplement can help support joint health, skin beauty, and overall well-being, giving you the confidence to move freely and glow from the inside out.

 

Fourteen: Offal Enhances Bone Health

 

Beef liver and kidney are rich in vitamin D and vitamin K2, two essential bovine organ nutrients for maintaining strong, healthy bones. 


Schmid and Walther found that offal is a significant source of vitamin D, right after fish meat and liver. Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium, while vitamin K2 directs that calcium to your bones, where it's needed most. Without these key players, calcium can't do its job properly, leading to weak, brittle bones and an increased risk of osteoporosis. 

 

Fifteen: Organ Meats Support Cardiovascular Health

 

Beef organs offer incredible benefits for cardiovascular health. CoQ10 in beef heart supports heart function. Omega-3 fatty acids from the liver meat help maintain healthy blood vessels and reduce inflammation throughout the body. Both organs contain protein, vitamins, and taurine—an essential amino acid that plays a crucial role in maintaining proper heart rhythm and preventing heart disease. 

 

Sixteen: Offal Promotes Healthy Fetal Development During Pregnancy

 

Beef organs support healthy fetal development. Beef liver and kidneys are true superfoods for both you and your unborn child. These organ meats are rich in folate, a vital nutrient that plays a crucial role in the proper formation of the neural tube, which later develops into the baby's brain and spinal cord. Adequate folate intake reduces the risk of neural tube defects, such as spina bifida and anencephaly. 


Beef liver and kidneys are the best dietary sources of:


  • B12: this vitamin supports fetus growth and development.
  • Choline: it supports brain development and aids folate in preventing neural tube defects.
  • Protein: you need all the essential amino acids you can get to make sure your baby grows healthy.
  • Omega-3 fatty acids: DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) is particularly vital for fetal brain and eye development. 

Seventeen: Organ Meats Enhance Digestive Health And Nutrient Absorption

 

Organ meats promote digestive health and nutrient absorption. Tripe (stomach) and pancreas are rich sources of digestive enzymes, including lipase, protease, and amylase. They help break down fats, proteins, and carbohydrates, respectively. These enzymes support efficient digestion and ensure that your body can extract the maximum amount of nutrients from the food you eat. 


You can find the highest-quality pancreas in our beef organ capsules alongside other grass-fed meats such as heart, liver, and spleen. Carefully sourced, quality organ meat is processed to preserve its natural enzyme content, ensuring that you receive the maximum digestive and nutritional benefits. 

 

Eighteen: Offal Supports Healthy Kidney Function And Electrolyte Balance

 

Beef kidney meat is packed with essential vitamins and minerals that help regulate electrolyte levels. For example, vitamin B12 is crucial for the formation of red blood cells. Red blood cells deliver oxygen to the kidneys and other organs, so you want them functioning at their peak—one of many reasons to include our kidney supplement in your diet.


Remember the antioxidant prowess of selenium found in beef kidneys? This mineral protects your kidneys from oxidative damage which can improve their function. You’ll also find a fine selection of other minerals in beef kidneys, including magnesium and potassium. These play a vital role in regulating electrolyte levels, which optimizes hydration and improves kidney health. 

 

Nineteen: Beef Organs May Help Improve Sleep Quality 

 

A diet balanced with healthy amounts of beef organs may improve the quality of your sleep. The high-quality protein found in organ meats can help maintain stable blood sugar levels throughout the night, preventing sleep disturbances caused by sudden drops in glucose.


Beef organs are high in vitamins, especially vitamin B6, which plays a crucial role in the production of serotonin and melatonin. These hormones regulate sleep-wake cycles. Liver meat is rich in glycine, an amino acid that has been shown to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. There’s also a higher level of magnesium and zinc, which are essential for the synthesis of neurotransmitters that promote relaxation and support healthy sleep patterns.

 

Twenty: Beef Organs Support Weight Loss

 

If you're looking to rev up your metabolism and maintain a healthy weight, beef organs should be on the menu. Beef liver, heart, kidneys, and thymus are packed with high-quality protein essential for building and preserving lean muscle mass. 


The protein in organ meats keeps you feeling full and satisfied, reducing the likelihood of overeating or reaching for unhealthy snacks—which is what usually happens when you stuff your face with carbs and empty calories. With their low-calorie density and impressive nutrient profile, beef organs can be a fantastic addition to any weight loss or weight management plan.


The evidence is clear—high-quality, grass-fed beef organs can offer a wide range of health benefits. If you’re reluctant to cook and eat them fresh at first, our organ supplement is the way to go.


"I started using the beef organs with the collagen and it’s been a game changer for my health and digestion. I won’t be stopping any time soon I feel so good on these supplements and need the extra support while breastfeeding I can tell my body needed the vitamins and minerals this blend offers."


—L.

 

 

Grass fed beef organs supplement by One Earth Health

 

 

Which Organ Meats Can You Eat?

 

Some organ meats may be more familiar to you than others, but generally, you can eat the whole animal, snout to tail. 


Here is a list of beef organ meats that you can consume:


  • Liver
  • Heart
  • Kidney
  • Tongue
  • Thymus gland 
  • Pancreas
  • Brain
  • Tripe (stomach)
  • Oxtail
  • Bone marrow
  • Cheek meat
  • Testicles
  • Spleen
  • Lungs
  • Intestines

While most parts of a cow can be consumed, people typically avoid a few of them due to potential health risks or cultural preferences. These include:


  1. Brain and spinal cord. In some countries, it is forbidden to consume cow brain and spinal cord due to the risk of bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE), also known as "mad cow disease."
  2. Cow eyes are not commonly eaten in most Western countries.
  3. Cow reproductive organs, such as the uterus and ovaries, are not typically eaten.
  4. The cow’s adrenal glands are not usually consumed.
  5. Hooves and horns are not typically consumed but may be used to make gelatin or animal feed.

Organ Meat vs Muscle Meat

 

Traditional meat like chicken breast and ground beef remain the most popular protein sources, but organ meats may be even more nutritious. Variety meats are not only excellent sources of high-quality protein but also contain ounce for ounce more essential nutrients in a highly bioavailable form.


Let’s compare protein content in muscular meat vs organ meat, according to Healthline:


  • 100 grams of loin steak has 22.8 grams of protein.
  • 100 grams of cooked beef liver contains 29 grams of protein. 
  • 114 grams of raw beef heart contains 20 grams of protein.

Polish researchers found that organ meats contain more nutrition than steak and even many vegetables. The liver and heart sequester higher doses of vitamins, minerals, and other beneficial compounds than muscle meats such as sirloin. 


Take vitamin D, for example. 


…the highest values of vitamin D are found in fish and especially in fish liver, but offal also provides considerable amounts of vitamin D. The content in muscle meat is generally much lower. (Schmid and Walther)


All types of organ meat are heavier in B-complex vitamins, such as B12, B2 (riboflavin), and B9 (folic acid) than your regular steak or short rib. They also contain higher levels of fat-soluble vitamins like vitamin A, which is crucial for immune function, reproductive health, and maintaining healthy vision.


Organ meats are a great source of iron in their highly absorbable heme form, as well as zinc and copper. (Beef liver is bursting with copper.)


So, if you're looking to optimize nutrition, consider incorporating nutrient-dense organ meats into your diet alongside traditional meat.

 

Is It Safe to Eat Organ Meat?

 

Organ meats are generally safe to eat. Health experts recommend eating offal because of its impressive nutritional profile. Beef liver, heart, kidney, and tongue are among the most commonly consumed organ meats and are considered safe for most people. 


Some organ meats may pose a risk of transmitting certain diseases—such as the Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE), commonly known as "mad cow disease"—so unless you’re 100% sure of where you have beef brain and spinal cord, avoid these parts. Additional reasons why beef organs may be unsafe for a small number of people include:


  1. Organ meats like liver and kidney are high in purines, which can contribute to high levels of uric acid in the body. The accumulation of purines may lead to or exacerbate gout.
  2. Beef brain and liver are high in cholesterol. High cholesterol levels may be a concern for those who suffer from cardiovascular disease.
  3. The liver and kidneys are responsible for filtering toxins from the body, so they may accumulate higher levels of toxins, such as heavy metals or pesticides if the animal was exposed to these substances.
  4. The liver is exceptionally high in vitamin A. In excessive amounts, vitamin A may lead to congenital disabilities, especially in pregnant women.
  5. Some people may have allergies or sensitivities to specific proteins found in organ meats.
  6. Certain medications, such as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), may interact with the high levels of tyramine (an amino acid derivative that helps regulate blood pressure) found in some organ meats. The combination of excessive tyramine and MAOIs may lead to a dangerous spike in blood pressure, potentially causing a hypertensive crisis.

To make sure you always get the highest quality organ meats, make sure you source them from healthy, grass-fed animals. If you have a specific health condition—gout, cardiovascular, or kidney issues—consult your healthcare practitioner and limit the intake of certain organ meats. 


Once your doctor gives you the green light, order the best beef organ supplement money can buy. We source our meat from grass-fed cattle raised on pristine New Zealand pastures. Our supplements are carefully crafted to provide you with the concentrated goodness of organ meats, without the need for extensive preparation or an acquired taste. 

 

What if I Don’t Like Eating Beef Liver and Organs?

 

Not a fan of how organ meats taste? We get it. That's where our organ supplements come in. No need to worry about preparing organ meats or dealing with unfamiliar tastes or textures. At One Earth Health, we offer a convenient way to get all the nutritional benefits of organ meats without having to eat them.


Our supplements are made from ethically sourced beef organs, including the liver, heart, and kidneys. By formulating them into easy-to-swallow capsules, we've made it simple for anyone to incorporate these nutritional gems into their daily routine. 


If you want to experience the health benefits of nose-to-tail eating without the fuss, give our grass-fed beef organ supplement a try. 

 

Want to Buy the Best Beef Organ Supplements?

 

One Earth Health brings you the finest grass-fed beef organ supplements on the market. We ethically source our organs from small family farms where cattle graze on lush green pastures. That means no questionable additives, fillers, or artificial ingredients in our products—just pure, unadulterated nutritional goodness in easy-to-take capsules. 


Our supplements are on par with, if not superior to, popular brands like Ancestral Supplements and Heart & Soil, but at a more affordable price. We focus on delivering quality without the gimmicks. 


In a standard American diet that's often lacking in nutrients and protein, our organ meat supplements provide a concentrated source of essential vitamins, minerals, and high-quality protein. Our supplements contain a powerful blend of nutrient-dense organs, including the liver, heart, kidney, pancreas, spleen, thymus, and even bone marrow and trachea. 


Experience the benefits of nose-to-tail nutrition without the hassle of preparing the meat yourself. Choose One Earth Health for the best grass-fed beef organ supplements and give your body the nutritional support it deserves.

Beef Organs FAQ

Is organ meat better than vegetables?

 

While both organ meats and vegetables have their unique nutritional benefits, organ meats are more nutrient-dense. They provide a wide variety of essential vitamins, minerals, and bioavailable vitamins in higher concentrations compared to most vegetables.

 

Is beef liver good for you?

 

Beef liver is an excellent source of essential nutrients, including vitamin A, vitamin B12, iron, and folate. It supports bodily functions, from blood cell production to cognitive function, making it a nutritious addition to a balanced diet.

Is organ meat good for the skin?

 

Organ meats like liver are rich in vitamin A, which is crucial for maintaining healthy skin. Vitamin A supports cell turnover, promotes collagen production, and helps keep your skin looking youthful and radiant.

Who should not eat organ meat?

 

While organ meats are highly nutritious and offer numerous health benefits, they may not be suitable for everyone. Those with specific health conditions or dietary restrictions should limit or avoid consuming animal organs. 


If you suffer from any of the following health conditions, you may want to limit your intake of beef organs.


  • Organ meats are high in purines, which can contribute to the development of gout or worsen existing symptoms. 
  • The liver and brain are high in dietary cholesterol. If your blood cholesterol levels are elevated or you’re at risk of heart disease, limit your intake of organ meats.
  • Those with a history of heart disease or those at high risk for developing cardiovascular issues may need to limit their consumption of organ meats because of the high cholesterol content.
  • People with kidney disease may need to limit their intake of organ meats, as they are high in phosphorus and may put extra strain on the kidneys.
  • Popular organ meats such as the liver are very high in iron. People with conditions such as hemochromatosis (which causes excessive iron accumulation in the human body) should avoid consuming large amounts of organ meats.
  • The high purine content in organ meats can contribute to the formation of uric acid kidney stones in some people. 
  • People with disorders such as tyrosinemia or trimethylaminuria may need to avoid organ meats due to their inability to process certain compounds found in these foods.

Always consult with your healthcare provider before making significant changes to your diet.

Which meat is highest in omega-3?

 

Among common organ meats, beef brain meat is one of the highest sources of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA, which is essential for brain development and cognitive function.

Why don't we eat organ meat?

 

In some cultures, organ meats have fallen out of favor due to changes in dietary preferences and a lack of familiarity with preparing these traditional meats. Many international cuisines still incorporate organ meats as a regular part of their diets.

What is the most beneficial organ meat?

 

The liver is often considered the most nutrient-dense organ meat, as it is an excellent source of vitamin A, B vitamins, iron, and other essential trace elements. Other types of animal organs like the heart, kidney, and spleen also offer unique nutritional benefits.

Can I eat beef liver every day?

 

While beef liver is highly nutritious, it's not necessary to eat it every day. Try to consume a variety of beef organ meat and other nutrient-dense foods as part of a balanced diet. This way, you're getting a wide range of essential nutrients without overdoing it on any one particular food.

Which beef organs are high in magnesium?

 

Beef heart and kidney are both good sources of magnesium, an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in energy production, muscle and nerve function, and bone health.


What organ meat is high in vitamin D?

Beef liver is a good source of vitamin D, which is essential for maintaining strong bones, teeth, and a healthy immune system. Incorporating beef liver into your diet can help you meet your daily vitamin D needs, especially if you have limited sun exposure or follow a diet low in other vitamin D-rich foods.

 

Resources

 

Gómez-Pinilla, F. (2008). Brain foods: The effects of nutrients on brain function. Nature Reviews. Neuroscience, 9(7), 568. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrn2421


Saini, R. (2011). Coenzyme Q10: The essential nutrient. Journal of Pharmacy and Bioallied Sciences, 3(3), 466-467. https://doi.org/10.4103/0975-7406.84471


Zhang, R., Zhang, H., Wang, Y., Tang, J., Li, G., Huang, Y., Chen, D., Targher, G., Byrne, C. D., Gu, B., & Zheng, H. (2023). Higher consumption of animal organ meat is associated with a lower prevalence of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. Hepatobiliary Surgery and Nutrition, 12(5), 645-657. https://doi.org/10.21037/hbsn-21-468


Apd, D. C. (2023, April 27). Are Organ Meats Healthy? Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/organ-meats


Biel, W., Czerniawska-Piątkowska, E., & Kowalczyk, A. (2019). Offal Chemical Composition from Veal, Beef, and Lamb Maintained in Organic Production Systems. Animals: An Open Access Journal From MDPI, 9(8). https://doi.org/10.3390/ani9080489


Schmid, A., & Walther, B. (2013). Natural Vitamin D Content in Animal Products. Advances in Nutrition, 4(4), 453-462. https://doi.org/10.3945/an.113.003780