Are Beef Organ Supplements Good for Women?

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that nearly 2 billion people worldwide are deficient in key vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A, iron and zinc. Among those 2 billion, roughly two-thirds are nonpregnant women of reproductive age.

Although this number is high, many women choose to address nutrient deficiencies through supplements, one of which has gained popularity for its proposed nutrient density: beef organ supplements.

Keep reading to learn more about beef organ supplements, including their benefits for women, whether they’re overhyped, who should and shouldn’t take them and important safety tips.

What Are Beef Organ Supplements?

Beef organ supplements are nutrient-rich capsules containing freeze-dried and powdered cattle organs, such as liver, heart, kidneys, tongue and pancreas, depending on the formula. The freeze-drying process allows you to obtain the natural health benefits of cattle organs on the go without having to buy or cook them yourself. Key nutrients include:

• Digestive enzymes
• Iron
• Selenium
• Vitamin A
• Vitamin B12
• Zinc

But before taking any new supplements, it’s important that you know the benefits and whether they’re backed by science.

Benefits of Beef Organ Supplements for Women

Potential health benefits of beef organ supplements for women include:

• Better digestive and heart health
• Immune system support
• Improved skin health
• Increased cognitive function
• Reduced risk of anemia

Just Right, or Overhyped?

When it comes to identifying the health benefits of beef organ supplements, there’s a caveat that can make it quite challenging. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesn’t regulate supplements the same way they do for prescription medications. Before supplements enter the market, the FDA doesn’t approve them for safety or effectiveness; that’s the manufacturer's responsibility. Because of this, companies will market their products as having numerous health benefits without ever proving them through research or backing them with science. So that begs the question: are beef organ supplements just right, or overhyped?

Some of the overhyped health benefits of beef organ supplements include a rapid increase in energy levels and reduced adrenal fatigue. While it’s true that these supplements are high in energy-boosting nutrients like iron and vitamin B12, there is no scientific evidence to prove that they provide instant energy or cure chronic fatigue in women. In fact, the opposite might be true. Because we naturally consume vitamin B12 and iron in the foods we eat, an excess of these nutrients may actually make your adrenal glands less active, leading to more tiredness. Too much of a good thing can be harmful.

Other overhyped benefits of beef organ supplements that lack scientific evidence include:

• Better source of bioavailability compared to whole foods
• “Like supports like;” consuming heart, liver or kidney organs directly supports or strengthens the corresponding human organ
• Testosterone booster

For most women, the best way to meet their nutrient needs is through a healthy diet. While supplements can be effective, it’s best to talk with your doctor before taking them to ensure they’re right for you. If you’re looking for delicious foods that pack a nutritional punch, visit our recipe blog site for your next home-cooked meal.

To Take or Not to Take: Who Beef Organ Supplements Are For

Beef organ supplements are best suited for women with specific nutrient deficiencies, like iron, vitamin B12 or vitamin A, athletes or active women needing recovery support or those on restrictive diets. However, certain women should avoid taking beef organ supplements, including those with:

• Gout
• High cholesterol or heart disease
• Increased risk for vitamin A toxicity
• Iron overload
• Kidney issues

Before taking beef organ supplements, talk with your doctor and be sure to use them responsibly.

Play It Safe

As with any new supplement or medication, there are certain best practices you can follow to protect your health. When it comes to beef organ supplements, be sure to choose high-quality products that are third-party tested, emphasize reducing contamination risk and prioritize nutrient preservation. Since the FDA doesn’t regulate supplements, it’s best to research different brands to ensure they’re safe to take.

It’s also best to start slow. If the recommended dosage is two pills per day, try starting with just one to let your body adjust. If you have negative reactions to the supplements, it’s better to take a lower dose than a full one to temper the side effects. And if you don’t already, make sure you have a comprehensive understanding of your overall health. Beef organ supplements can be especially harmful for those with certain conditions, like gout or high cholesterol. Having a baseline for your overall health will help you determine your specific supplement needs. But overall, the best way you can protect yourself before taking these supplements is to talk with your doctor.

Helping You Navigate Your Health With Confidence

Our compassionate women’s health care providers are here to help you understand and navigate your health and explain which supplements are right for you so that you can feel your best at every age and life stage. Learn more about our women’s health care services or find a provider near you. We’ll be by your side every step of the way.