Extracts of beef (bovine) liver are a rich natural source of many vitamins and minerals, including iron.
Liver extracts provide the most absorbable form of iron—heme iron—and other nutrients critical in building blood, including vitamin B12 and folic acid. Liver extracts can contain as much as 3–4 mg of heme iron per gram. In addition to its use as a source of iron, liver extracts are also used by some healthcare practitioners to support liver function and boost energy levels. Liver extracts have been tested in people with chronic liver disease. However, no clear benefit has been demonstrated.1 2
Liver extracts are available as nutritional supplements in capsules and tablets.
Liver extracts have been used in connection with the following conditions (refer to it for complete information):
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The recommended amount depends on the concentration, method of preparation, and quality of the liver extract.
No side effects or adverse reactions have been reported. Liver extracts should not be used by people suffering from iron-storage disorders, such as hemochromatosis.
As the liver is a major filtering organ for many potentially toxic environmental chemicals, some doctors are concerned that consumption of liver extracts may result in increased intake of these chemicals.
At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions with liver extracts.
1. Fujisawa K, Suzuki H, Yamamoto S, et al. Therapeutic effects of liver hydrolysate preparation on chronic hepatitis—A double blind, controlled study. Asian Med J 1984;26:497–526.
2. Sanbe K, Murata T, Fujisawa K, et al. Treatment of liver disease—with particular reference to liver hydrolysates. Jap J Clin Exp Med 1973;50:2665–76.
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The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over-the-counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires July 2004.