Benefit for health
Although the composition of beef kidneys does not differ much from that of beef liver, they nevertheless have a significantly lower calorie content. Many housewives undeservedly ignore this offal. The reason lies in a specific smell, which is explained by the direct function of the organ. Fortunately, you can get rid of the smell. To do this, it is enough to soak the liver for at least 30 minutes in water before preparing the dish (preferably for two to three hours). The effect is enhanced by adding a little vinegar. In especially difficult “aromatic” cases, it is necessary to bring the product to a boil several times.
The composition contains water-soluble vitamins of group B, vitamins A, C, PP and E. Regular consumption leads to strengthening of immunity, normalization of the cardiovascular system. The concentration of calcium, sodium, phosphorus, iodine and potassium is high enough that one serving can replace a multivitamin complex. There is also enough iron in the product, although less than in beef liver.
Kidneys are one of the few foods that contain free selenium, the concentration is quite high, 240 μg – per 100 grams of the product. This element has a positive effect on the functioning of the thyroid gland, normalizes the production of many hormones, primarily thyrocalcitonin, thyroxine, triiodothyronine. This normalizes the course of metabolic processes. A diet that includes the kidneys protects the body from the development of cancer cells precisely due to the selenium content. Another element’s ability is to cleanse the body of toxins and biological degradation products.
With regular use, beef kidneys normalize the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract and the entire digestive system. It has a general strengthening effect on the walls of blood vessels, which in turn normalizes the functioning of the cardiovascular system. An improvement in regeneration and recovery processes is noted, the growth process is accelerated in children and adolescents.
The presence of amino acids and various enzymes has a positive effect on the state of the nervous system, ensures the regeneration of myelin fibers and the restoration of nerve cells.
Kidneys are very popular in diets as they are very low in calories. It is enough to replace meat products with dishes made from them in order to obtain an identical level of saturation, but at the same time gradually lose several kilograms per week.
Kidney damage
For a healthy person, properly cooked beef kidneys will be an extremely healthy product. But in the presence of chronic diseases, especially of the cardiovascular system, it is worthwhile to introduce the product into your diet with caution. This applies to people with gout, atherosclerosis or glaucoma.
