Lamb Brains with Olive Oil & Lemon
Lamb brains are a dense traditional food with a creamy, buttery texture and a very delicate flavour, and among the richest foods in the phospholipid fats vital to the brain. Their glycemic index does not apply because they contain no starch, and they provide a nourishing meal of exceptional value for nerve cells.
Glycemic index
Glycemic load
Calories
Protein
💡 Smart Nutritional Guidance
Consumption advice
Have a measured portion (half a brain), poached or lightly sautéed with a little oil, with lemon juice, cumin and garlic and brown bread or vegetables.
Best preparation methods
Soak in cold water with vinegar to remove the small blood vessels, then poach gently for a few minutes with lemon juice and a bay leaf to keep the creamy texture.
Important Nutritional Note
Important clinical warning: brain contains the highest cholesterol concentration of all animal foods (over 2,000 mg per 100 g), so it is not allowed for people with familial hypercholesterolaemia or blocked arteries.
Nutrition facts
| Nutrient | Per 100 g | Per typical portion (100 g) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 145 kcal | 145 kcal |
| Protein | 11 g | 11 g |
| Carbohydrate | 1 g | 1 g |
| Available carbohydrate | 1 g | 1 g |
| Fat | 11 g | 11 g |
| Dietary fibre | 0 g | 0 g |
The typical portion is approximate, for comparison purposes.
Comparison & smarter alternatives
It has 145 kcal per 100 g, ranking 10 of 45 in Arabic dishes (lowest first).
Related foods from the same family:
Frequently asked questions
Do lamb brains raise blood sugar?
Not at all, because they contain no carbohydrate; the risk lies in their richness and very high cholesterol.
What is the nutritional value of a 100 g portion of lamb brains?
The portion contains about 145 kcal, 11 g of soft protein and 11 g of phospholipid-rich fat, with almost no carbohydrate.
Why are they considered good for the brain and memory?
Because they contain natural omega-3 (DHA) and phosphatidylserine, the building blocks of brain cell membranes.
Reviewed by the WiBo Health medical team · Last reviewed 13 October 2026
Disclaimer: This guidance is for nutritional lifestyle orientation and does not constitute a diagnostic medical device under EU Regulation MDR 2017/745.