Benefit of the Beef Liver

Whether it is love or hate, people often have a strong reaction to the idea of beef liver. Liver is a type of offal, which is a culinary term referencing the internal organs of an animal. In North America, liver is most commonly pan-fried and served with onions. If you enjoy beef liver, there are many positive health benefits associated with it.

Protein

Adults should consume approximately 0.8g of protein per day for every kilogram of body weight. The basic building blocks of protein are called amino acids. Unlike carbohydrates and fat, the body does not store amino acids, so they must be consumed on a regular basis. A 4-oz. portion of beef liver has approximately 22.6g of protein. This is 45 percent of the recommended daily allowance for a person on a 2,000 calorie diet.

Minerals

A single 3-oz. serving of beef liver provides the entire recommended daily allowance of copper for men and women, as well as a large portion of iron, zinc and phosphorus. Iron is another nutrient that is crucial for blood. It is a major component of hemoglobin, which transports oxygen throughout the body. Iron deficiency can progress to anemia. This condition is especially dangerous for young children and pregnant women.

Vitamin A

Eating one serving of beef liver provides an entire day's requirements of vitamin A. This nutrient is important for healthy skin, teeth and bones. A lack of vitamin A can cause vision problems. Too much vitamin A can cause illness; however, eating beef liver in moderation can be a healthy part of a well-balanced diet.

B Vitamins

Beef liver is high in vitamins B-6, B-12 and folic acid. These vitamins are crucial in maintaining a strong immune system as well as producing red blood cells. A deficiency of B vitamins is one factor that may cause iron deficiency to progress to iron deficiency anemia. According to the American Cancer Society, people with a low intake of folic acid are at an increased risk of developing certain types of cancer.