This is something we can all benefit from.  Doesn’t matter what your goal is, bodybuilding/physique/bikini, rehab, performance sport, or just being healthy.  Eating the whole animal is good for you.  Unfortunately, those of us that grew up here in the US, the thought of eating kidneys or tongue isn’t the most appetizing thing.  Outside of a few cultures here and there, in most of the world eating organ meats is almost preferred. At the very least, they just don’t want to waste anything.  Growing up in rural Pennsylvania, eating the "innards" of animals was staple.  In the animal kingdom, after the kill (sometimes during) the predator will rip the prey open and start with the organs.  What do Discovery Channel predators know that we don’t?

First off, they know that the innards are the most nutrient dense parts of the animal.  The quality of the protein in those parts are also high, as well as rich in essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals.

If we were to compare 6 ozs of beef liver with 6 ozs of filet mignon, they will have similar levels of protein and essential AAs, but the liver will have far higher levels and quality of vitamins and minerals.

Here’s where you should go:

Liver: a great source of vitamin A, all B vitamins, vitamin C, iron, phosphorus, selenium, copper, manganese, and zinc.  These micros will help with development of both t- and b-cells; the metabolism of carbs and cholesterol; augments the effects of exercise.

Heart: a great source of B vitamins, iron, selenium, phosphorus, copper, and CoQ10.  All play a vital roll in energy production, red blood cell formation, and metabolism of AAs, glycogen.  Helps with iron absorption and thyroid function.  Oxygen transport.  CoQ10 is a wonderful antioxidant as well as lowers blood pressure and can improve power output.

Kidneys: good source of B vitamins, iron, phosphorus, copper, selenium, zinc, and vitamin C.  Fights muscular fatigue, offers neuroproductive benefits, thyroid hormones, and can increase testosterone levels. 

Tongue: great fat content, zinc, potassium, B vitamins, choline, and monounsaturated fats.  Helps with fortifying cell structure and neurotransmitter synthesis.  Regulates fluid balance and helps with electrical activity of the heart and muscles.