Organ Meats Are One Of The Healthiest Foods On The Planet But Don't Make THIS Mistake!
Dr. Steven GundryPublished on January 13, 2026
Summary authored by editor@wellifi.com
TLDR Summary
Organ meats can be highly nutritious, but not all are beneficial. Poultry organ meats like chicken livers are healthy options, while red meat organs contain compounds that can lead to inflammation and long-term health issues. Fermentation can also help make certain organ meats safer to consume.
Key Points
- Organ meats have been historically prized for their nutrient density.
- Red meats contain New five GC, a sugar molecule that can trigger inflammation.
- Poultry organ meats do not contain New five GC and are associated with better health outcomes.
- Bacterial fermentation can reduce harmful compounds in organ meats.
- Focus on chicken livers, hearts, and gizzards for health benefits.
The Health Benefits of Organ Meats: What You Need to Know
Growing up, many of us have fond memories of family meals, but did you ever fight over who got the chicken liver or gizzard? It turns out that there’s a reason why organ meats have been prized for centuries. In recent times, organ meats are recognized as a powerhouse of essential nutrients, but there are some important nuances to consider.
The Historical Context of Organ Meats
For centuries, organ meats have been considered one of the most nutrient-dense parts of an animal. Studies of large carnivores show that they often consume the internal organs first. In modern hunter-gatherer societies, organ meats like liver and intestines are highly valued, suggesting that these foods have been integral to human diets throughout history.
The Controversy Surrounding Organ Meats
However, not all organ meats are created equal. Dr. Gundry discusses a particular sugar molecule known as New five GC, which is found in red meats such as beef, lamb, and pork. This molecule is nearly identical to a similar sugar molecule our bodies produce, called New five AC. The key difference is that our immune system recognizes New five GC as foreign, leading to inflammation and various health issues.
Understanding the Health Risks
Research has revealed strong associations between the consumption of red meats and conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, dementia, heart disease, and cancer. While association does not equate to causation, Dr. Gundry emphasizes that the connection is likely causal due to the inflammatory response triggered by New five GC.
Which Organ Meats Are Beneficial?
Interestingly, poultry organ meats such as chicken livers, hearts, and gizzards do not contain New five GC and are associated with better health outcomes. This aligns with the traditional diets of certain cultures, such as the Italians and French, who consume organ meats like foie gras (fatty duck or goose liver) and benefit from their nutrient density.
Fermentation: A Safe Way to Enjoy Organ Meats
There’s good news for those who enjoy organ meats. Through bacterial fermentation, harmful compounds like New five GC can be reduced or eliminated. For example, chef Jimmy Schmidt successfully decreased New five GC levels in his hot dogs by fermenting the meat. This traditional method of preparation not only enhances flavor but also makes these foods safer to consume.
Conclusion: Embrace Poultry Organ Meats
In conclusion, if you want to incorporate organ meats into your diet, focus on poultry options like chicken livers, hearts, and gizzards. These not only provide essential nutrients but also avoid the potential health risks associated with red meat organ consumption. Remember, it’s about making informed choices for long-term health.