Nutritional Breakdown (& Benefits) of Beef Intestine

Bovine Intestine (also known as beef intestine or tripe, especially when referring to the stomach/intestine combo) has been consumed in traditional and ancestral diets for centuries. While it’s more commonly known as a cultural delicacy in dishes like menudo, andouillette, or pho, it also holds nutritional and functional value, particularly when consumed whole or as part of organ supplements.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of its nutritional profile and health benefits.  Keeping in mind, that this refers to the cleaned, prepared intestine (small or large), typically boiled or stewed. With raw or freeze-dried forms typically exhibiting higher nutritional density (especially in peptides and enzymes).

Macronutrients (educated estimate, per 100g)

• Calories: ~130-160 kcal
• Protein: 12-15 g
• Fat: 8-10 g
• Carbohydrates: 0 g
• Cholesterol: ~200 mg
• Sodium: ~60–90 mg

Key Micronutrients

• Vitamin B12 – energy production, red blood cells, nervous system
• Zinc – immune function, gut repair
• Iron (heme) – oxygen transport, cognitive support
• Phosphorus – bones, teeth, and cellular energy
• Selenium – antioxidant defense, thyroid support
• Collagen & glycine – gut lining, joints, skin, and detoxification

Functional Compounds

• Glutamine – gut lining repair, intestinal permeability
• Mucosal peptides – supports immune signaling and gut barrier health
• Elastin & collagen – connective tissue repair
• Glycosaminoglycans – like chondroitin, supports joints and tissue regeneration

Notable Health Benefits of Bovine Intestine include:

1. Supports Gut Lining & GI Health - Contains structural proteins and peptides similar to your own intestinal lining. May help repair leaky gut, IBS symptoms, and general GI tract resilience

2. High in Collagen & Mucosal Proteins - Especially beneficial for Intestinal wall integrity, Joint health, Skin elasticity, Post-antibiotic recovery

3. Aids Immune Function - The intestine contains GALT (gut-associated lymphoid tissue), which plays a central role in the immune system - Nutrients and signaling peptides in bovine intestine may help modulate immune responses

4. “Like-Supports-Like” for Intestinal Disorders - Traditional and ancestral medicine suggest that eating intestine may help support conditions like Ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, IBS, Food sensitivity-related inflammation

5. Source of Pre-Digested Nutrients - Intestines may retain small amounts of partially digested chyme, offering trace amounts of prebiotic compounds or beneficial bacteria (if carefully processed or fermented)

6. High in Glycine and Glutamine - These amino acids Fuel intestinal epithelial cells, Support gut barrier repair, Reduce inflammation in the gut lining

7. Supports Nutrient Absorption - Intestinal tissue is rich in cofactors that enhance nutrient assimilation and metabolic health

8. Rich in Vitamin B12 and Heme Iron - Promotes red blood cell formation, cognitive health, and energy metabolism

9. Traditional Remedy for Digestive Weakness - In Chinese and folk medicine, animal intestines are used to strengthen digestion and restore vitality after GI illnesses

10. Unique Source of Gut-Specific Growth Factors - May include intestinal-specific peptides that help the body signal regeneration of intestinal tissue, via the gut-organ axis

Our latest product - Bovine GI Tract – contains Intestine, Stomach Gallbladder, and Pancreas in 1 convenient, easy swallow capsule.  Like all of our PrimalRx products, these organ powders are free of additives, preservatives, and fillers, and are sourced from the best grass-fed, pasture-raised cattle in the world.