Liver (organ meat)

Liver is a nutrient-rich organ meat that plays a crucial role in detoxification and the storage of essential vitamins and minerals. It is particularly high in heme iron, which is toxic in its free form but can be safely stored in the liver 2. The liver's ability to detoxify itself is impressive, with studies showing that it can clean itself of chemical contaminants within 24 hours of exposure 6. In fact, the liver is the cleanest organ in the body, with only a tiny proportion of livers found to have toxins left after exposure 6.

Beef liver is an excellent source of fat-soluble vitamins, including vitamins A, D, E, and K, as well as the intracellular form of vitamin C 7. It is also a good source of B vitamins, making it a valuable addition to a diet. However, it is essential to note that overcooking can destroy many of the nutrients found in liver 7.

The absorption of iron from liver is also an important consideration. While coffee can inhibit the absorption of non-heme iron, heme iron from liver is not affected in the same way 2. In fact, the heme iron in liver can even have toxic effects, forming carbon monoxide apart from the iron 2.

Ray Peat recommends eating liver occasionally, as it is rich in oily vitamins that can be easily met with a single meal 7. He also notes that the liver is the main detoxifying organ, but it cleans itself quickly, making it a safe choice for consumption 6.