Does beef tallow have any heath benefits?

Beef tallow has been discussed for its potential health benefits, particularly in the context of reducing cancer risk. In animal studies, beef tallow has shown protective effects against precancerous lesions in the colon when compared to soybean oil. These studies suggest that beef tallow may decrease the formation of aberrant crypt foci, which are precancerous lesions, and increase apoptosis, which is the process of programmed cell death, thus potentially reducing the risk of colon cancer 1 2.

Additionally, beef tallow contains odd chain fatty acids, such as pentadecanoic acid, which are associated with lower risks of cardiometabolic diseases and overall lower mortality rates. These fatty acids are primarily found in animal fats, and incorporating them into the diet might contribute to improved health outcomes 3.

For skincare, beef tallow is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and conjugated linoleic acid, which can help nourish and strengthen the skin barrier and might aid in treating inflammatory skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis. It is also high in fat-soluble vitamins such as vitamin A, D, E, and K, which support both skin health and overall wellness 4 5.

While much of the current evidence stems from animal models, these findings suggest potential health benefits for humans, though more studies are needed to confirm these effects in human populations.