Health & Life

Is Eating Pork Liver Harmful to Your Health? Know the Facts Before It’s Too Late!

It is a common misconception that consuming animal livers is detrimental to one's health due to the organ's role in detoxifying the body. But is this belief grounded in scientific fact or is it merely a myth?

Administrator

28 July, 2024

Is it Advisable to Consume Animal Liver?

Apart from its role in producing bile for digestion and absorption of fats, synthesizing proteins, and storing glucose, the liver is also crucial for detoxification. Toxins do not accumulate in the liver but are instead processed by it, converted into non-toxic substances, and then eliminated from the body.

Liver is the organ with the highest protein content.

Additionally, vitamin A and iron are highly beneficial for children suffering from anemia and malnutrition. Hence, consuming liver is beneficial rather than harmful.

However, it is important to select the liver from healthy animals. Ideally, the liver should have a deep red color and a smooth surface, free from any bumps.

Upon purchasing, rinse the thinly sliced liver with cold water, and then use paper towels to absorb any remaining blood. This process ensures that any toxins present in the blood are removed, leaving only the nutrient-rich liver cells.

Who Should Refrain from Consuming Liver?

While organ meats, including liver, can be beneficial for some individuals, they may not suit everyone. Children, pregnant and lactating women, individuals with iron deficiency anemia, adolescents, and young adults can benefit from consuming organ meats like liver, but in moderation. It is recommended to consume liver 2-3 times a week, with portions of 50-70g for adults and 30-50g per meal for children.

Parasites such as liver flukes can also reside in the liver. Furthermore, in pigs infected with hepatitis, the liver may contain harmful viruses and toxins.

Therefore, when purchasing liver, opt for fresh liver with a resilient texture and a smooth surface. Avoid liver with a yellow or dark purple hue and an unpleasant odor. Ideally, source liver from inspected, healthy animals at regulated slaughterhouses.

It is important to ensure thorough cooking of the liver to eliminate bacteria and parasites. Avoid consuming rare or undercooked liver, and instead, cook it thoroughly over high heat.

For elderly individuals and those with obesity, it is advisable to consume liver in moderation. People with hyperlipidemia, hypertension, diabetes, gout, nephrotic syndrome, and heart failure should refrain from consuming liver.

Food Combinations to Avoid with Pork Liver

Pork Liver and Orange Juice Don’t Mix

Pork liver contains significant levels of copper. When combined with vitamin C, as found in orange juice, the vitamin C can become oxidized and lose its original function.

Important considerations when consuming pork liver

Avoid Pork Liver Stir-fried with Bean Sprouts

In general, animal liver, including pork liver, should not be cooked with vegetables or fruits rich in vitamin C, such as bean sprouts. Vitamin C is neutral and alkaline-unstable, while liver contains trace elements like copper and iron, which can oxidize and degrade vitamin C.

Don’t Mix Pork Liver with Raw Fish Salad

According to Eastern medicine, consuming raw fish salad with pork liver can lead to abdominal distension and indigestion. If this occurs, a hot licorice water solution can be used as a remedy.

Animal liver, including pork liver, should not be combined with vitamin C-rich vegetables, fruits, or other food items.

Pork liver should also not be paired with celery or carrots. The metal ions in pork liver can break down vitamin C, negating the benefits of carrots. Celery contains cellulose and oxalic acid, which can interfere with iron absorption when consumed with pork liver.

Avoid Combining Pork Liver with Curly Kale

Curly kale is rich in vitamin C, but when combined with pork liver, this vitamin can be broken down and rendered ineffective. Therefore, these two foods should not be mixed. Regularly combining these foods can lead to kidney stone formation and negatively impact your health.

Frequently asked questions

No, eating pork liver in moderation can be beneficial to your health due to its high nutrient content. However, excessive consumption may lead to potential health risks as it is rich in cholesterol and purines.

Pork liver is an excellent source of high-quality protein, vitamins A, B12, and folic acid. It also contains significant amounts of iron, zinc, and selenium.

It is recommended to consume pork liver in moderation, limiting it to once or twice a week. A standard serving size is about 3-4 ounces, which provides ample nutrients without excessive intake of cholesterol and purines.

Yes, excessive consumption of pork liver can lead to elevated cholesterol levels and a higher risk of gout due to the presence of purines. Individuals with liver or kidney disease, or those taking certain medications, should consult their healthcare provider before consuming pork liver regularly.

There are various delicious and healthy ways to prepare pork liver. Soaking it in milk or lemon juice before cooking can help reduce any strong flavor. Grilling, pan-frying, or stir-frying with vegetables are quick and tasty cooking methods. Ensure the liver is cooked until just done to avoid overcooking and dryness.