There are certain parts of an animal that people are often afraid to cook and eat. Case and point: offal. But this is most likely because we focus on textures and the thought of what offal is without regarding the health benefits of eating offal.
What exactly is offal?
‘Offal’ is used to describe the internal organs and other tissues of animals. It includes the liver, heart, tongue, pancreas, kidneys and feet (especially chicken feet). Admittedly, these don’t sound very appetizing, but hear us out! When prepared properly, it is absolutely delicious and may very well become some of your favourite dishes. One example is the less familiar type of offal: tripe. Cut from the stomach lining of ruminants like cows, pigs, sheep and goats, trip – amongst other forms of offal – is enjoyed as delicacies all over the world.
Organ meats are a fantastic source of nutrients and is beneficial to incorporate more of in your diet (moderately, of course). Here are four health benefits of eating offal:
1. A rich source of protein
Stay fuller for longer when you eat this high-protein organ meat. Of the organ meat, the liver and heart have the highest protein content. A Bonus? It’s low in carbohydrates!
2. Increases your iron levels
Offal consumption is especially beneficial for those who have an iron deficiency. Iron is needed to produce haemoglobin; a protein used to carry oxygen throughout your body. Offal meats like chicken livers contain heme iron – the easiest form of iron for your body to absorb.
3. Improves skin, hair and nail health
By slow cooking your bone broth, essential vitamins and minerals like magnesium, Vitamin A, potassium, zinc and Omega-3 and 6 fatty acids are released from the marrow bones and connective tissue of animals. The bone broth is also rich in protein collagen, which improves skin, hair and nail health. So, drink up for shiny hair and strong nails!
4. Great for brain, muscle and liver health
Organ meat is a fantastic source of choline. Choline is an important nutrient that aids your brain, muscle and liver health.
When you’re done scrunching your nose to the thought of offal, have a gab at trying out some recipes that include them. Plus: you can save a penny or two on those expensive supplements at the pharmacy!
