Calf’s Liver

Calf’s liver is tasty and delicious and is a powerhouse of nutrients. Antibiotic and pesticide residues in organic calfs liver are significantly less. It is much preferred over beef liver for its tenderness and flavor. In addition to the high cholesterol and saturated fat content, calf’s liver is a good source of beneficial nutrients, such as, vitamin A, vitamin Cvitamin b2, b5, b6, b12, niacin, phosphorus, zinc, copper, iron and selenium. It provides 49.1 per cent of daily value of protein (4 ounces) and is also a good source of protein and folic acid.

Homocysteine conversion requires the presence of folic acid, pyridoxine and cyanocobalamine.

The risk of heart diseases is increased with higher homocysteine levels. Vitamin b2 or riboflavin is essential for pyridoxine functioning, which is converted to its active form, pyridoxal phosphate. This proves the necessity of riboflavin in cardiovascular benefits. Glutathione, an antioxidant is required for free radical scavenging activity and riboflavin, is a co-factor for glutathione regeneration.

Niacin is another vitamin necessary for cardiac health. It helps in lowering the cholesterol levels, thereby reducing the risk of diabetic heart disease and atherosclerosis. Calf’s liver is a good source of pantothenic acid. It helps in metabolism of energy. Vitamin b6, pantothenic acid and niacin are three vital vitamins, acting as cofactors, necessary for the enzymes in a series of metabolic reactions. Conversion of macro nutrients is done in the presence of niacin.

Glucose tolerance factor is necessary for neutralizing insulin activity. Niacin is a component of glucose tolerance factor (GTF).Breakdown of glycogen and carbohydrate processing calls for the need for niacin. Adrenal gland functioning is supprted by pantothenic acid, which aids in overcoming fatigue and stress. Colon cancer risk is reduced by low-fat diet. Vitamin b12 foods are equally important. Selenium is essential for free radical scavenging and is present in glutathione peroxidase.

Zinc with Vitamin A is helpful in maintaining the epithelial tissues. Selenium helps in hindering the cancer cells’ multiplication and DNA repair. Research reveals the positive correlation between emphysema protection and vitamin A. Smoking is injurious, as the benzopyrene in smoke results in vitamin A deficiency. Supplementation of vitamin A rich diet reduces the incidence of emphysema. Vitamin A and zinc in calf’s liver aids in boosting the immune system. Epithelial and mucosal tissues are maintained by vitamin A. Integrity of the epithelial tissues is maintained by vitamin A, thereby decreasing the probability of infection and allergy.

Submitted on January 16, 2014