Many of us consult Dr Google when wanting a solution to a problem with the search term ‘fatigue’ currently delivering 1.8 million results. It’s also reported that around 1.5 million Australians visit their doctor each year in the hope of fixing their fatigue. 

So why are so many of us feeling sluggish? Are vitamins and minerals (or lack of) connected to fatigue and how can beef organs help? Before we share our findings let’s quickly touch on the two processes that are pivotal to experiencing optimal energy levels ...

1. ATP

In humans, the foods we eat provide the fuel required to perform our daily physical and mental activities. This food is broken down into sugars, fatty acids and amino acids that ultimately end up in our mitochondria (the batteries of our cells) which produce chemical energy called ATP (adenosine triphosphate). ATP is effectively a shuttle, delivering energy to places within the cell where energy-consuming activities are taking place.

Side note: A 2020 study published by PubMed* indicates a long-known involvement of vitamins and minerals in cellular energy production (ATP) which translates into perceived physical and mental fatigue.

2. Oxygen

While ATP's role in energy production is pivotal, other functions fulfilled by micronutrients are also key in relation to fatigue and cognition. Besides energy, muscles and brain also need oxygen, which should be delivered by the hemoglobin (which is a protein in red blood cells) that carries oxygen. This process requires the red blood cells to be created optimally in the first place for which (and this is important to note) ... iron, vitamin A and several B vitamins are critical. Inadequate intakes of these micronutrients result in anaemia, with resultant fatigue and weakness symptoms.

Side note: During anaemia when the levels of hemoglobin (the oxygen carrier) are decreased, oxygen delivery is impaired, with consequences for not only cognitive and physical performance, but also perceived fatigue and tiredness

So What Does This Mean?

It's now clear that select vitamins and minerals play a critical role in making healthy red blood cells for oxygen production while also producing ATP. It's also important to note that fatigue is much more than just a deficiency of iron. The vitamins and minerals that are central to supporting the two energy systems above are:

• B Vitamins (in particular B12) 
• Vitamin A
• Vitamin C
• Iron
• Magnesium
• Zinc

The PubMed* study continues to outline that supplementing individuals with vitamins and minerals is thus highly likely to result in health benefits in the areas of mental and physical fatigue. Importantly, effective supplementation should carefully consider the chemical form of vitamins and minerals, that is natural versus synthetic, which can affect their bioavailability.

Could This Be Why Your Iron Supplement Is Ineffective?

As you can see, supplementing with more iron when you are anemic is only one piece of the puzzle. Without adequate intakes of the vitamins and minerals outlined above you may still be experiencing compromised energy production. 

How Can Beef Liver & Organs Support Energy Production?

Many people assume that beef organs are simply a good source of iron which in turn helps to fight fatigue. Given what we now know about the two important processes involved in energy production and the nutrients required to support them, the picture starts to become clearer.

Beef liver and organs are particularly rich in vitamin A and B-vitamins, and are also rich in minerals, including iron, magnesium and zinc. These are the building blocks required to support optimal oxygen levels and ATP. They also come packed as nature intended in a whole food animal-based source that are generally more bioavailable than plant-based or synthetic supplements.

What if You Want More Energy But Don't Like Eating Beef Liver & Organs?

As you can see from the information above, adding beef liver and organ meats into your diet makes a lot of nutritional sense. If you’re still not comfortable with the idea of buying and preparing organ meats you're not alone. Fortunately there is an easy solution...

Our beef liver and beef organ supplements are contained in easy-to-take flavourless capsules. They are non-defatted to preserve the fat-soluble nutrient content (including vitamin A) and are freeze-dried, which also helps preserve the full range of nutrients. They are 100% hormone, antibiotic and GMO-free and are 100% grass-fed and organic from the pristine Tasmanian pastures.

Beef organs, particularly the kidney, have been gaining popularity in recent years due to their purported health benefits. Many people are turning to these nutrient-dense foods to support their overall health and wellbeing. One area where beef organs, specifically the kidney, may have a significant impact is on thyroid health.

The thyroid is a small gland located in the neck that plays a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions, including metabolism, energy production, and hormone balance. When the thyroid gland is not functioning correctly, it can lead to a variety of health issues, including weight gain, fatigue, hair loss, and more.

Research suggests that consuming beef organs, particularly the kidney, may be beneficial for thyroid health in both men and women. In this article, we will explore the various nutrients found in beef kidneys and how they can support thyroid function.

5 Nutrients that support thyroid health:

1. Iodine

One of the most crucial nutrients for thyroid health is iodine. Iodine is a mineral that is essential for the production of thyroid hormones. Without adequate iodine intake, the thyroid gland cannot produce enough hormones, which can lead to hypothyroidism.

Beef kidneys are an excellent source of iodine, which can support thyroid health and prevent iodine deficiency. Other good sources are seaweed, fish, dairy and eggs.

2. Selenium

Another important nutrient for thyroid health is selenium. Selenium is a mineral that plays a crucial role in the production of thyroid hormones. It also has antioxidant properties, which can protect the thyroid gland from damage.

Studies have shown that selenium deficiency can lead to thyroid dysfunction, including hypothyroidism and autoimmune thyroid disease. Eating foods rich in selenium, such as beef kidneys, brazil nuts, fish and meat can help support thyroid health and prevent these issues.

3. Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 is a nutrient that is essential for the production of red blood cells and the maintenance of nerve function. It is also important for thyroid health.

Levels of vitamin B12 may be linked to an increased risk of thyroid dysfunction. Consuming foods rich in vitamin B12 like meat and organs, fish, poultry, eggs, and dairy products can help support thyroid health and prevent these issues.

4. Zinc

Zinc is a mineral that is essential for immune function, wound healing, and cell growth and division. It is also important for thyroid health.

Zinc deficiency may be linked to an increased risk of thyroid dysfunction. Consuming foods rich in zinc, such as beef organs, oysters, meat, fish and other seafoods can help support thyroid health and prevent these issues.

5. Iron

Iron is a mineral that is essential for the production of red blood cells and the transport of oxygen throughout the body. It is also important for thyroid health.

Research suggests that iron deficiency may be linked to an increased risk of thyroid dysfunction. Consuming foods rich in iron, such as beef organs, red meat, shellfish, nuts and seeds can help support thyroid health and prevent these issues.

Our skin is the largest and fastest growing organ and has one of the highest demands for nutrients. Skin conditions such as acne, psoriasis or premature ageing are all dependent on the nutrients contained in the foods we eat.

Researchers have noted connections between the skin, digestive system, and the brain and have termed this connection as the 'gut-brain-skin axis' and more recent research has validated strong associations between skin and common digestive/gut conditions. Does the term 'leaky gut' ring a bell?

If you want to take steps to address a particular skin condition or just want better looking skin, the foods we eat are a great starting point to support the skin-gut-brain axis. In this article we'll examine the key skin-specific nutrients found in organ meats and outline how they can help us achieve healthy, glowing skin ...

1. Vitamin A

Beef liver contains high levels of pre-formed vitamin A (also know as retinol) and is one of the most well recognised and easily absorbed nutrients for healthy skin. Synthetic retinoids have been commonly prescribed for the treatment of several skin conditions, including acne, eczema, and psoriasis since the 1980s.

Foods like carrots, sweet potatoes and pumpkin contain a 'precursor' form of vitamin A (called beta-carotene) which must be converted in the body to vitamin A. Some studies estimate that beta-carotene from plants has a conversion rate of as little as 3% to usable vitamin A. The best food sources of retinol are:

• Beef Liver and kidney
• Egg yolks
• Cod liver oil
• Grass-fed dairy

Skin Benefits: Eating foods that provide vitamin A in the pre-formed version (retinol) contributes to healthy skin by promoting skin cell growth and turnover. It helps fight acne by inhibiting oil secretion in the skin and decreasing androgen production. 

2. Zinc

Zinc is one of the many essential nutrients that your body needs. This essential mineral supports healthy skin by promoting wound healing, fighting inflammation, and protecting our skin against UV radiation. Studies have found that zinc may be particularly beneficial for healing acne and other skin conditions like eczema.

Zinc can be found in a variety of animal and plant foods, but is best absorbed from animal products, including:

• Beef liver and kidney
• Red meat (beef & lamb)
• Oysters, scallops, shellfish

Plant-based sources of zinc like nuts, seeds, and beans are bound to phytates (the stored form of phosphorus found in seeds, nuts & legumes) which decrease their absorption in the body. 

Skin Benefits: Due to its anti-inflammatory effects, zinc is especially beneficial for inflammatory acne and related scarring. Its anti-inflammatory properties may also help people with conditions such as rosacea and eczema.

3. Biotin

Biotin (or vitamin B7) is another well know nutrient for healthy skin. This water-soluble B-vitamin helps regulate fatty acid metabolism, which is critical for healthy skin.

Biotin deficiency leads to impaired fat production which tends to manifest in the skin first. Some common signs of biotin deficiency include hair loss and scaly, red, and inflamed skin around the mouth and other areas of the face and scalp. Biotin deficiency can also be a cause of dandruff for some people.

The best food sources of biotin are:

• Egg yolks
• Beef liver
• Almonds & walnuts

Skin Benefits: Biotin helps improve skin's hydration, smoothness, and appearance. Biotin is a versatile addition to your skincare routine.

Iron is probably the most common word used in the emails we receive. There's a lot of confusion in terms of wanting to access the most effective, absorbable form that doesn't come with a range of side effects, hence this article ...

Iron stands as one of the fundamental nutrients vital for various bodily functions, such as oxygen transport, energy production, and DNA synthesis. Its importance in maintaining overall health cannot be overstated. When discussing iron, two primary forms come into focus: heme iron and synthetic iron. Understanding their differences in bioavailability, potential side effects, and best sources is crucial for making informed dietary choices.

Heme Iron vs. Synthetic Iron: Unraveling the Distinctions

Bioavailability

Heme iron and synthetic iron exhibit differences in how effectively the body absorbs and utilises them. Heme iron, predominantly found in animal-based foods, boasts higher bioavailability compared to synthetic iron. Bioavailability refers to the amount of a nutrient that the body can absorb and use effectively.

The unique structure of heme iron found in hemoglobin and myoglobin in animal tissues allows for efficient absorption in the intestines. This characteristic absorption mechanism enables the body to utilise a more substantial portion of heme iron consumed compared to its synthetic counterpart.

Conversely, synthetic iron, often in the form of supplements or fortified foods, contains non-heme iron. This form of iron doesn't absorb as efficiently as heme iron. Factors such as the presence of inhibitors in certain foods and lower absorption rates contribute to the decreased bioavailability of synthetic iron.

Side Effects

Synthetic iron supplements can cause gastrointestinal discomfort, including nausea, and abdominal pain. One of the most common side effects of synthetic iron is constipation. Iron supplements can slow down bowel movements and cause stools to become hard and difficult to pass.

The form in which synthetic iron is presented in supplements can be harsh on the digestive system. Some forms of iron, such as ferrous sulfate or ferrous fumarate, can irritate the stomach lining, causing discomfort, nausea, or even gastritis.

Heme iron, found in animal-based foods, has fewer side effects due to better absorption and its natural form, minimising gastrointestinal issues.

Optimal Sources of Heme Iron

When it comes to obtaining iron from dietary sources, heme iron predominantly comes from animal-derived foods, such as red meat, poultry, and fish. Beef, in particular, stands out as a significant source of heme iron, with the lesser-known beef spleen containing exceptionally high iron content. Learn more about iron rich foods here. 

Best Food Sources of Heme Iron

1. Red Meat: Beef, lamb, and pork contain substantial amounts of heme iron. These cuts of these meats provide a nutrient-dense source of iron.
2. Poultry: Chicken and turkey serve as good sources of heme iron. 
3. Fish: Certain types of fish, such as salmon and tuna, offer heme iron along with popular omega-3 fatty acids.
4. Beef Spleen: While less commonly consumed, the beef spleen presents the richest source of heme iron in the beef organs space.

Conclusion

Heme iron and synthetic iron differ significantly in their bioavailability, potential side effects, and dietary sources. While heme iron, predominantly found in animal-based foods, boasts higher bioavailability, synthetic iron, often in supplements or fortified foods, offers an alternative for individuals with specific dietary needs.

Understanding these differences enables individuals to make informed choices about their iron intake. Incorporating a balanced diet with various heme iron sources, including the often-overlooked beef spleen, can contribute significantly to meeting daily iron requirements without solely relying on synthetic supplements.