Is the Cow's Heart High in Cholesterol? Unveiling the Facts

December 5, 2025 •

2 min read

A 3-ounce serving of cooked beef heart contains approximately 180-200 mg of cholesterol, placing it high on the list of cholesterol-rich foods. Despite the cholesterol content, beef heart is nutrient-dense.

Quick Summary

This article explores the cholesterol content of beef heart. It highlights its nutritional value, comparing it to other meats, and offers guidance on incorporating it into a balanced diet.

Key Points

High Cholesterol Content: Beef heart has a high cholesterol content, approximately 180-200 mg per 3-ounce serving.
Rich Nutritional Profile: Beef heart is rich in protein, iron, zinc, selenium, and B-vitamins, especially B12.
Lower in Fat: Compared to some other meats, beef heart is relatively low in fat, with lower levels of saturated fat.
Source of CoQ10: Beef heart is a source of CoQ10, an antioxidant that supports energy and cellular health.
Moderation and Balance: Moderate consumption is suitable for healthy individuals; those with heart disease should seek medical advice.
Healthy Cooking Methods: Grilling or braising are preferred over methods that add fats.
Flavor and Versatility: Beef heart has a mild flavor and can be prepared in various ways.

Understanding Cholesterol in Cow's Heart

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in all cells of the body. Dietary cholesterol, which comes from animal products, has been a topic of debate for its impact on blood cholesterol levels. Organ meats, such as cow's heart, generally have higher cholesterol levels than muscle meats.

Nutritional Composition of Beef Heart

Beef heart provides an impressive array of nutrients. It is a good source of protein, iron, and vitamin B12. It also contains Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), an antioxidant that supports energy production and cell function.

Key Nutrients in Beef Heart

Protein: Essential for muscle building and repair.
Iron: Crucial for preventing anemia and supporting oxygen transport.
B-Vitamins: Contains Riboflavin (B2), Niacin (B3), Pantothenic Acid (B5), and a high amount of Vitamin B12, supporting energy metabolism and nervous system function.
CoQ10: An antioxidant that supports mitochondrial health and energy production.
Zinc: Supports immune function and cellular metabolism.
Selenium: A trace mineral with antioxidant properties.

Comparing Cow's Heart with Other Meats

Beef heart has a higher cholesterol content than many lean muscle meats. However, it is lower in fat, especially saturated fat, than some cuts. The nutritional trade-off involves considering the increased cholesterol along with the high micronutrient content of organ meats.

Including Beef Heart in a Balanced Diet

Consuming cow's heart in moderation is unlikely to cause significant health issues related to cholesterol for healthy individuals. Those with existing conditions like heart disease or high cholesterol should exercise more caution and consult with a healthcare professional.

Beef heart is versatile in the kitchen. It has a mild flavor and can be pan-fried, grilled, or slow-cooked.

How Cooking Methods Affect Cholesterol and Fat

Cooking methods can influence the overall nutritional outcome. Methods that do not add extra fat are best. Braising, grilling, and simmering are good options. Deep-frying or cooking with large quantities of butter or oil will increase the fat content.

Comparison Table: Beef Heart vs. Lean Ground Beef (per 3 oz, cooked)


Nutrient	Beef Heart (approx.)	Lean Ground Beef (approx.)
Calories	140	180-200
Protein	24g	20-22g
Total Fat	4g	8-10g
Saturated Fat	1.2g	3-4g
Cholesterol	180mg	70-80mg
Iron	High (30% DV)	High (15-20% DV)
Vitamin B12	Very High (383% DV)	High (20-30% DV)

Note: Nutritional values can vary based on specific cuts, cooking methods, and USDA data sources.

Conclusion: Making Informed Choices About Beef Heart

Cow's heart is high in cholesterol compared to lean muscle cuts of meat. However, it is also a nutrient-dense food, packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals. Moderate consumption as part of a balanced diet can provide benefits. The overall health impact depends on dietary patterns and existing health conditions. Consultation with a medical professional is recommended for those with high cholesterol. Understanding the nutritional profile allows for an informed decision about including beef heart in the diet.

For more information on dietary cholesterol, the American Heart Association provides resources.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, beef heart is leaner than many steak cuts. It has less fat than fatty ground beef or marbled steaks, although its cholesterol is higher.

For most healthy people, dietary cholesterol from beef heart has less impact on blood cholesterol than saturated and trans fats. Those with heart disease should limit high-cholesterol foods and consult a physician.

Beef heart is packed with nutrients that support health. It is an excellent source of protein, iron, zinc, and B-vitamins, especially B12, which boosts energy. It also contains CoQ10, an antioxidant.

Both beef heart and beef liver are high in cholesterol. Liver is higher in Vitamin A, while heart offers more CoQ10.

Because of its cholesterol content, individuals with cardiovascular issues like high blood pressure should be cautious. Consult a healthcare provider if you have existing health conditions.

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is an antioxidant the body uses to produce energy for cell growth and maintenance. It supports heart health and is found in high concentrations in beef heart.

Grilling, braising, or simmering are recommended to limit fat intake. Avoid adding fats during preparation.