Liver fraction is a concentrated extract from animal liver, processed into a supplement. It offers a concentrated source of beneficial compounds. Historically, this extract gained recognition for its nutritional properties and was incorporated into various health regimens.
Sources and Key Components
Liver fraction supplements are primarily sourced from bovine liver, often from cattle raised without chemical sprays, pesticides, or antibiotics, and frequently originating from regions like Argentina. This careful sourcing aims for a pure product. The process concentrates beneficial components from the liver.
The process involves extracting ground animal livers with hot water, then concentrating the liquid into a paste. Further refinement may use aqueous alcohol solutions and refrigeration to isolate desired fractions and remove impurities. This ensures the final product is a concentrated extract.
Liver fraction boasts a rich nutritional profile. It contains significant amounts of bioavailable vitamin B12 and folate. These water-soluble vitamins are readily utilized by the body.
The extract is a notable source of minerals, particularly bioavailable heme iron and chelated iron, along with trace minerals like copper and zinc. It also offers high-quality protein, essential amino acids, and various peptides.
Historical and Modern Applications
Historically, liver fraction gained prominence in the early 20th century as a crucial intervention for pernicious anemia, a previously fatal blood disorder. Researchers observed that feeding raw liver to anemic dogs dramatically improved their condition. Clinical trials then demonstrated that a diet rich in raw liver could induce rapid recovery in human patients.
The active compound was identified as vitamin B12 (cobalamin) in 1948. Concentrated liver extracts were then developed for intramuscular injections, serving as the standard therapy for pernicious anemia until purified vitamin B12 became widely available in the 1950s. This established liver extract’s reputation as a potent nutritional agent.
Today, liver fraction is a general health supplement. It supports energy levels and reduces fatigue, primarily through its contribution to healthy red blood cell production. Its rich content of bioavailable iron and B vitamins plays a role in these processes.
Athletes and individuals seeking to enhance physical capabilities consider liver fraction. It supports endurance, stamina, and post-exercise recovery, optimizing oxygen transport and nutrient metabolism for performance. Liver fraction also finds application in animal supplements, aiding digestion, stimulating appetite, promoting growth, and serving as a natural source of iron.
Important Considerations for Consumption
When considering liver fraction supplements, sourcing is a primary consideration. Many products emphasize origin from grass-fed and grass-finished bovine liver. This often implies cattle raised without chemical sprays, pesticides, or antibiotics, aiming for a cleaner product.
Processing methods influence product quality; freeze-drying is a common technique to preserve heat-sensitive nutrients and biological activity. Consumers often look for supplements free from fillers, flow agents, or hormones, and those manufactured in cGMP-certified facilities to ensure purity and quality standards.
Potential interactions with medications are another consideration. The liver plays a central role in metabolizing many drugs. While liver fraction is a food-derived supplement, its concentrated nutrient profile could influence physiological processes or interact with specific medications. Individuals taking prescription drugs should discuss liver fraction supplementation with a healthcare provider.
While generally considered safe, sensitivities or allergic reactions are possible. Individuals with Alpha-gal syndrome, an allergy to certain mammalian products, may experience reactions to liver-derived supplements. Elevated liver enzymes might also be influenced by various factors, including supplements.
Dosage guidelines are typically provided on product labels and should be followed carefully. Since liver fraction is a concentrated nutrient source, adhering to recommended serving sizes is advisable. Consulting a healthcare professional is a prudent step before incorporating liver fraction, especially for those with existing health conditions, or if pregnant or nursing.