Clayton's Health Facts: Dessicated Liver.

Clayton South, SPN (ISSA), is a recognized expert in the bodybuilding / fitness industry with over 150 bodybuilding, fitness and nutrition publications to his credit.

1. What are they and where do they come from?

Dessicated liver is extracted from the liver of beef cattle. It is rich in B vitamins and is a natural source of iron and folic acid.

2. What does it do and what scientific studies give evidence to support this?

Dessicated liver helps to increase red blood cell count and stimulate appetite. Anabolic steroids also stimulate appetite and increase red blood cell count.

Dessicated liver is a natural source of iron. Supplementing with too much synthetic iron can result in an iron overdose. Overdosing with synthetic iron can result in death. With natural sources of iron, overdose is almost never likely to occur, even in individuals who consume large quantities of red meat.

The Iron and B vitamins in desiccated liver tablets contribute to bone health, muscle building and immune functioning.

3. Who needs it and what are some symptoms of deficiency?

Everyone can benefit from supplementing with dessicated liver tablets. Populations that may benefit most from the supplementation of desiccated liver include: Bodybuilders and athletes, individuals with iron-related blood disorders, and individuals deficient in folic acid.

Bodybuilders and athletes may benefit from supplementing with dessicated liver due to its ability to stimulate appetite, improve blood health and contribute to the edition of lean body mass to one's frame. In the 1960s and '70s bodybuilders like Tom Plattz would supplement with liver tablets to maximize muscle gains.

Individuals suffering from anemia may benefit from supplementing with desiccated liver because it is a natural source of iron. Synthetic iron poses the possibility of overdose, while desiccated liver is free from this possibility.

4. How much should be taken? Are there any side effects?

Although there are no known side effects from supplementing with desiccated liver tablets, it is recommended that label directions be followed at all times. Individuals with iron related disorders should consult with a physician prior to the supplementation of dessicated liver.

5. Where can I get it?

There are different brand names that manufacture supplemental dessicated liver.

Written by Bodybuilding.com writer, Clayton South.