Desiccated Liver: Why Is This Old School Supplement Making A Big Comeback?

They say what’s new is just what’s been forgotten. And in the case of effective supplements for muscle building purposes, desiccated liver was a staple of many old-time athletes and weightlifters, and it’s slowly being rediscovered by a whole new generation.

How They Got Their Reputation

There is centuries-old folklore that has been attributed to the use of liver. It isn’t just conjecture, however. It stems from observance. When animals in the wild go for the kill, the first thing they eat isn’t the flesh — it’s the organs. It’s instinctual to go for what is most nutrient-dense. And liver is the most nutrient-dense animal protein. That scenario translated into the old-time physical culturists recommending liver as the ultimate bodybuilding food. (Along with eggs).

One obvious drawback about liver is that most people don’t like the taste. That makes liver in tablet form the perfect solution. Desiccated liver tablets and pills are made by taking fresh, raw, grass-fed, beef liver and dehydrating it at a low temperature. It is then milled into a fine powder and encapsulated or formed into a tablet. Some say the capsules allow for more the substance to be released in the stomach and therefore become more fully digested. But it’s for the very reason that you can get some unpleasant “after taste” with the capsules. In that regard, the desiccated liver tablets are more palpable. With Desiccated Liver supplements, you can get all of the health benefits of fresh, raw, beef liver without having to actually eat foul-tasting organ meat.

The bodybuilders of the ’50s, ’60s, and ’70s caught onto this principle and used up to 20 desiccated liver tablets daily with great success. It wasn’t until the era that “Designer Supplements” came along that Desiccated Liver Tablets started to lose their appeal. They weren’t deemed as “exotic” as all the new pseudo-scientific “steroid alternative” supplements. Then around 1985, a product called “Hot Stuff” came along that used dehydrated glandular meats, including liver, as its primary source of protein along with various herbs. Needless to say, it tasted awful! But it was unique and appealed to bodybuilders willing to do anything to get results. And those who used the original version of Hot Stuff was indeed effective — most probably from the protein content and partially to the stimulative effects of the herbs. Then in 1990, protein powder was re-invented in the form of something called Met Rx — which wasn’t really anything all that new, but the marketing scheme was brilliant. It was touted as the latest scientific discovery and included in the advertising promotion was information that supposedly objectively critiqued other protein products, including Desiccated Liver. It was dismissed by the Met Rx promoters as old fashioned placebo. To those who knew it worked, they saw through the hype, but to a young audience first getting into bodybuilding and supplements, they went with the new and discarded the old. And Desiccated Liver eventually fell out of favor. And it stayed that way for quite a while. But it’s back. And with good reason.

Desiccated Liver Benefits

It Builds Muscle.

Several studies and abstracts have been conducted on desiccated liver. Desiccated liver is a fantastic form of bio-available protein with a complete amino acid ratio. These “building blocks” are required for building, repairing, and healing all the cells in the body, and equally significant is the fact that muscle cannot be built without them. You need amino acids for metabolism, weight maintenance, fat loss, and muscle growth. That is significant because unless the amino acid profile is complete, the protein will not be as effective and could actually be inert.

You can get a comparable gram of complete protein, high in BCAA’s, with liver tablets as you can with most high tech amino acid capsules. Taken throughout the day they can assure a positive nitrogen balance. And Desiccated Liver tends to be far less expensive!

It Builds Strength

Desiccated liver contains several vitamins and minerals and is abundant in iron, which is essential for cells throughout the body, in particular, red blood cells. It is vital for strength and energy. An iron deficiency will leave you feeling fatigued quicker than if you have a sufficient supply readily available in the bloodstream. Without iron, hemoglobin can’t be formed, and hemoglobin is required for the transport of oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. It should be stated that too much iron can be toxic and it is especially so for men, yet Desiccated Liver contains heme iron — the type that is naturally available in meat whereas most iron supplements are made from ferrous sulfate, which can cause constipation gastrointestinal discomfort as well as potential constriction of blood vessels. The heme iron is more absorbable, therefore utilized more naturally and efficiently and is less likely to build up in the system.

The use of desiccated liver powder or capsules is a great way to prevent and treat iron deficiency and anemia since the naturally-occurring iron in desiccated liver is highly unlikely to cause the side effects and overdose dangers of synthetic iron supplements.

It Builds Endurance

More than 65 years ago, Benjamin K. Ershoff, Ph.D., conducted research showing the fatigue-fighting benefits of desiccated liver. He put mice in water to see how long they could survive by attempting to swim. Various substances were given to the mouse to see if they’d fare better with one of the other. (This excluded drugs).In his experiment, lab rats were split into three groups:

Group 1 was fed an average diet.

Group 2 was fed the same diet as Group 1, with the addition of vitamins.

Group 3 also ate the same diet as Group 1, but 10% of their diet was given as Desiccated Liver.

The rats continued on their assigned diets for a few weeks, at the end of which they were put in a container of water that they could not climb out of. (I know, that sounds mean, but it’s in the name of science. Besides, they’re rats).

The results of this experiment were as follows:
Rats in Group 1 swam an average of 13.3 minutes before tiring and sinking.
Rats in Group 2 did slightly better, swimming an average of 14.9 minutes before giving up.
The rats’ in Group 3 who were fed desiccated liver swam for over an hour!
That’s pretty damn impressive. And conclusive. These results suggest that there may be something in the desiccated liver not yet discovered that may prevent the body from becoming fatigued. This bodes well for bodybuilders, endurance runners, and athletes of all sports as well as those suffering from chronic fatigue.

It Builds Immunity To Disease

Desiccated liver powder or capsules is also a terrific source of Vitamin A, which is critical for vision, organ health, and immunity. Vitamin A from a food source may also be instrumental in lowering the risk of contracting cancer. Vitamin A is essential for eye health, night vision, and age-related vision loss, such as presbyopia and macular degeneration. Similar to iron, a vitamin A overdose is much less likely with a naturally occurring form from a food source such as Desiccated Liver.

It Builds Mass

If you want more size, you must ingest more high-quality calories. That means you need to eat more. Desiccated liver contains vitamin B12, which stimulates the appetite so you can take in more food.
A recent discovery about liver is that it also contains Vitamin K2, which is being used to treat clear plaque from the arteries making it one of the most heart-healthy nutrients you can use. And as a kicker, Desiccated Liver contains COQ 10, which also supports heart health, lowers cholesterol, and helps keep blood pressure in check.

The Myth of Liver Being a “Storehouse of Toxins.”

The belief that liver is loaded with toxins is something some supplement manufacturers used to dissuade people from using desiccated liver, but it’s absolutely not true. It’s true that the liver is the body’s filtering system, but it is for that very reason that liver does not contain any toxins! Toxins are not stored in the liver. They are stored in fat. The liver is constantly removing toxins and does not “hold on” to them. That only happens unless the liver is diseased or malfunctioning, and Desiccated Liver only uses healthy bovine liver.

Where To Get Capsules, Tablets, and Powder Supplements

Argentine Desiccated Liver is readily available in most health food stores and online through dozens of companies.

How Much is Enough?

Since each tablet is usually around a gram of protein you can use liver several ways — as a fuel source in between meals, as a way to pump up the protein content of a low protein meal or snack or just as a way of getting additional aminos when on a bodybuilding program. It would be almost impossible to overdose on them, but 10 -20 tablets a day seems to be the amount where you really start to see some results. Some people will “stack” desiccated liver tablets with an herbal testosterone booster such as UNLEASHED from Protein Factory.

In that way, you get a one/two punch of anabolism and androgenic enhancement, providing the effects similar to a mild steroid cycle, but without any of the side effects or suppression. In fact, many bodybuilders who take steroids will use a Desiccated Liver/UNLEASHED combo in between cycles to help maintain their gains.

All in all, Desiccated Liver is an excellent and economical solution for boosting strength, promoting health, and helping to build maximum muscle gain. Sure, it’s simple. It isn’t the latest cutting edge, state of the art technological breakthrough. But it works.

What’s old is new again. But this time, there’s proof. Why not add some onto your supplement regime and see for yourself. You might be surprised.

How Do B Vitamins in Liver Tabs Support Athletes?

Liver tabs are a powerhouse of B vitamins, which play a pivotal role in athletic performance and overall health. Here’s a closer look at how these essential nutrients support athletes:

Boosting Energy Levels

B vitamins are crucial for the body’s energy production. They help convert carbohydrates, fats, and proteins into usable energy. When your B vitamin levels are optimal, you can experience enhanced stamina and endurance, both crucial for high-intensity workouts.

Improving Metabolism

These vitamins are key players in carbohydrate metabolism and fat utilization. By aiding in the efficient breakdown and use of nutrients, B vitamins ensure that your body maximizes its fuel sources. This is especially important for athletes who need sustained energy during prolonged periods of physical exertion.

Enhancing Cell Function

Every cell in your body relies on B vitamins for proper functioning. This includes muscle cells that repair and grow stronger after exercise. Proper cell function is essential for recovery and improved performance.

Regulating Blood Sugar

Maintaining stable blood sugar levels is vital for athletes. B vitamins support the regulation of blood sugar, providing a steady energy supply and preventing the dreaded mid-workout crash.

Supporting Enzyme Functions

Enzymes are proteins that speed up chemical reactions in the body, including those involved in energy production and muscle recovery. B vitamins are needed for proper enzyme function, ensuring that your metabolism runs smoothly.

Antioxidant and Detoxification Benefits

B vitamins also play a role in antioxidant function and detoxification reactions, protecting your body from oxidative stress and helping to eliminate toxins. This is particularly beneficial for athletes who often face increased oxidative stress due to high levels of physical activity.

Key Benefits for Athletes:

• Increased Energy Production: Enhances workout stamina and endurance.
• Optimized Metabolism: Efficient breakdown of carbs and fats for fuel.
• Enhanced Recovery: Supports cell function and muscle repair.
• Stable Blood Sugar Levels: Prevents energy crashes and maintains performance.
• Improved Enzyme Efficiency: Ensures effective metabolic processes.
• Antioxidant Defense: Reduces oxidative stress and aids in detoxification.

In summary, liver tabs rich in B vitamins offer a comprehensive range of benefits that help athletes perform at their best, recover more efficiently, and maintain overall health. Whether you’re a professional athlete or a fitness enthusiast, incorporating B vitamins from liver tabs into your diet can be a game-changer.

What Are the Potential Risks of Consuming Liver Tabs from Contaminated Sources?

When it comes to liver tabs, understanding the potential risks of sourcing from contaminated origins is crucial. Consuming liver that hasn’t been carefully vetted can pose significant health threats.

1. Exposure to Harmful Substances

Contaminated liver products might contain:

• Steroids and Hormones: Livestock treated with these substances can pass residues into your liver tabs, potentially disrupting your endocrine system.
• Pesticides and Chemicals: Liver from cattle exposed to pesticides can lead to toxic buildup in your body, resulting in long-term health issues.

2. Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE)

Better known as mad cow disease, BSE is a neurodegenerative disorder that can be transferred to humans through infected cattle products. Consuming liver tabs from cattle that are not certified BSE-free can expose you to this fatal condition.

3. Heavy Metal Contamination

Liver functions as a detoxification organ in cows, which means it can accumulate heavy metals like lead and mercury if the cattle are raised in polluted environments. These metals can wreak havoc on your body’s vital systems.

4. Bacterial and Parasitic Infections

Inadequate livestock farming practices can lead to bacterial contamination or parasitic infection in the liver. Consuming such liver tabs increases the risk of foodborne illnesses, causing symptoms ranging from mild digestive distress to severe health complications.

How to Mitigate These Risks

To minimize these risks, opt for liver tabs sourced from grass-fed, pasture-raised cattle that are free from synthetic additives. Always verify third-party certifications to ensure that the liver is free from BSE and other contaminants. Your health depends on making informed, cautious decisions when incorporating organ supplements into your diet.

The Enduring Popularity of Liver Tabs: Unpacking the Mystery

Liver tabs have remained a staple in the fitness and nutrition world for decades, despite the lack of extensive scientific research supporting their benefits. So, what’s behind their enduring appeal?

First, consider the longevity aspect. If a supplement has been around for over thirty years, there’s likely a reason. Often, it’s because users have experienced tangible results. They wouldn’t be around otherwise.

The Historical Context

Liver supplements first gained traction many years ago, championed by bodybuilders and athletes who swore by their benefits. These athletes reported improved stamina, quicker recovery times, and better overall performance. Although the medical establishment initially questioned these claims, anecdotal evidence from the fitness community kept the product alive.

Modern-Day Validation

Today, some studies are beginning to catch up with these long-held beliefs. While comprehensive scientific validation is still in its infancy, preliminary research hints at the potential benefits of liver tabs. Rich in iron, B vitamins, and protein, liver supplements offer a nutritional punch that can be especially beneficial for those leading an active lifestyle.

Trusted in the Fitness Community

Even without extensive clinical backing, liver tabs have maintained their stronghold due to word-of-mouth and the trust of the fitness community. Bodybuilders and athletes have long relied on them, and their endorsements carry significant weight. In an industry where results speak louder than words, the continued use of liver tabs among these groups serves as a powerful testimonial.

Why They Stick Around:

• Tradition: Long-standing use within the fitness community.
• Preliminary Studies: Emerging research points to possible benefits.
• Nutritional Content: High in essential nutrients like iron and B vitamins.
• Anecdotal Evidence: Trusted by athletes who report positive outcomes.

In summary, while liver tabs may lack the extensive scientific research that some newer supplements boast, their unwavering popularity can be attributed to a combination of anecdotal evidence, preliminary studies, and their rich nutritional profile. It seems that sometimes, tradition and user experience create the best validation of all.

The Unique Benefits of Argentinian Grass-Fed Liver Tabs

When it comes to selecting liver supplements, the source and quality of the liver are paramount. Here’s how liver tabs from grass-fed cattle in Argentina stand out from other liver products:

Superior Source

• Grass-Fed, Naturally Raised: Unlike conventional liver products, Argentinian liver tabs come from cattle that are exclusively grass-fed. This means the cattle graze on natural pastures, ensuring a diet free from industrial feed.
• Hormone and Steroid Free: These cattle are raised without the use of hormones or steroids, which can often be found in other liver products. This results in a cleaner, more natural supplement.

Elevated Purity Standards

• No Pesticides or Contaminants: The farming practices in Argentina for these prized cattle exclude the use of pesticides and other harmful chemicals. This ensures that the liver is not only healthier but also purer compared to those from cattle subjected to such treatments.
• Certified BSE-Free: Safety is another significant advantage. Argentinian liver tabs undergo rigorous testing to ensure they are free from Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE), commonly known as mad cow disease. This certification is critical for minimizing health risks.

Enhanced Nutritional Profile

• Nutrient-Rich: Because the cattle are allowed to graze naturally, the liver they produce is rich in essential nutrients such as vitamins A, B, and iron. This nutritional profile often surpasses that of liver products from grain-fed or conventionally-raised cattle.

Key Takeaway

Choosing liver tabs from grass-fed cattle in Argentina provides a supplement that is healthier, cleaner, and safer. The rigorous standards adhered to in raising these cattle ensure a product that stands head and shoulders above other liver supplements on the market.

What to Look for When Choosing Liver Tabs

Choosing the right liver tablets can make a significant difference in your overall health and wellness. Here are key factors to consider:

1. Source of Liver: Opt for liver tabs derived from grass-fed cattle. The best sources are often from countries renowned for high-quality beef, such as Argentina.
2. Purity and Cleanliness: Ensure the liver tabs come from cattle raised without the use of steroids, hormones, or pesticides. This guarantees a product free from harmful contaminants.
3. BSE-Free Certification: Look for liver tablets that are certified to be free from Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE). This certification ensures the product comes from healthy, disease-free animals.
4. Transparency and Credibility: Make sure the product has undergone rigorous testing and provides clear information on sourcing and processing practices.

By focusing on these aspects, you can ensure you’re getting a high-quality product that supports your health goals efficiently.

What Are Nucleic Acids and Why Are They Important for Bodybuilders?

Nucleic acids, such as DNA and RNA, are vital molecules that carry genetic information crucial for the growth and repair of tissues. In the context of bodybuilding, these molecules take on an even more significant role.

When engaging in intense training sessions aimed at either building muscle or losing fat, your body experiences heightened metabolic demands. During these strenuous activities, the body’s natural ability to produce nucleic acids might not suffice, making them conditionally essential nutrients.

Here’s why nucleic acids matter for bodybuilders:

1. Muscle Repair and Growth: Nucleic acids support the synthesis of new proteins, which are essential for muscle repair and growth. After a rigorous workout, the tear in muscle fibers relies heavily on these molecules for recovery.
2. Energy Production: Enzymes involved in energy production are encoded by genes made of nucleic acids. This means that without adequate nucleic acids, energy production can be compromised, affecting the efficiency and intensity of your workouts.
3. Cell Regeneration: High-intensity training leads to cellular damage, necessitating rapid cell turnover. Nucleic acids are fundamental to this regenerative process, helping you bounce back quicker from grueling training sessions.

Including sources rich in nucleic acids, such as liver, in your diet can help meet these increased demands, thereby enhancing your recovery rates and overall performance.