This might sound weird, but I want you to embrace organ meats for optimal health. In the world of nutrition, there's a growing appreciation for the wisdom of our ancestors, who understood the value of consuming every part of an animal for optimal health. Organ meats, often overlooked in modern diets, are a nutritional powerhouse packed with vitamins, minerals, and essential nutrients that can significantly contribute to our well-being. As a naturopath, I'm excited to shed light on the myriad benefits of incorporating organ meats into our diets and reviving this age-old practice.
- Rich Source of Essential Nutrients:
Organ meats, also known as offal, encompass a variety of nutrient-dense options such as liver, heart, kidney, and spleen. These organs are reservoirs of essential nutrients, including vitamins A, B-complex, D, E, and K, as well as minerals like iron, zinc, copper, and selenium. Consuming a diverse range of organ meats ensures a broad spectrum of nutrients crucial for various bodily functions.
- Superior Nutrient Absorption:
Unlike synthetic supplements, organ meats offer nutrients in their most bioavailable forms, making them easier for the body to absorb and utilise. For example, heme iron found in organ meats is more readily absorbed than non-heme iron from plant sources, contributing to improved iron levels and preventing deficiencies.
- Boosts Immune Function:
Organ meats play a pivotal role in supporting the immune system. The high concentration of vitamin A in liver, for instance, is crucial for maintaining the integrity of mucosal surfaces, promoting immune cell function, and enhancing the body's defense mechanisms against infections.
- Supports Heart Health:
Consuming heart meat can be particularly beneficial for cardiovascular health. Heart tissue is rich in coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), a powerful antioxidant that supports energy production in the heart muscle. Including heart in your diet may help reduce the risk of heart disease and improve overall cardiac function.
- Hormonal Balance:
Organ meats are essential for maintaining hormonal balance, as they provide necessary building blocks for hormone synthesis. The liver, for instance, is involved in the metabolism and regulation of hormones, contributing to overall endocrine health. Great for women with heavy, painful periods, not just for the iron but overall hormone balance.
- Aids in Detoxification:
The liver, often referred to as the body's detox powerhouse, is responsible for filtering and eliminating toxins. Consuming liver provides essential nutrients that support the liver's detoxification processes, promoting overall well-being.
Embracing organ meats for optimal health in your diet is a natural and ancestral approach to optimal nutrition. These nutrient-rich powerhouses offer a diverse range of vitamins and minerals in forms readily recognised and utilised by the body. As a naturopath, I encourage you to explore and embrace the benefits of organ meats, recognizing them as an essential component of a holistic and nutrient-dense diet. Remember, when it comes to supporting your health, nature often provides the best solutions.
If you don't feel comfortable cooking and eating these organ meats- I get it, then there are amazing brands you can supplement with.