Is Eel Gluten Free?

Is Eel Gluten Free?

Yes, eel is naturally gluten-free as it is a type of fish and does not contain any wheat, barley, rye, or other gluten-containing grains. However, it’s important to be cautious of any sauces, marinades, or coatings used in eel dishes, as these may contain gluten ingredients.

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Health Information
Benefits of Eel

High in protein: Eel is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.

Rich in omega-3 fatty acids: These healthy fats support heart health, brain function, and may reduce inflammation.

Vitamin A: Supports eye health, immune function, and skin health.

Vitamin B12: Important for nerve function, red blood cell formation, and DNA synthesis.

Vitamin D: Crucial for bone health, immune function, and calcium absorption.

Phosphorus: Essential for bone and teeth health, and helps in energy metabolism.

Calcium: Supports bone health and muscle function.

Iron: Important for oxygen transport in the blood and energy production.

Selenium: An antioxidant that supports thyroid function and immune health.

Low in saturated fat: Beneficial for heart health when consumed as part of a balanced diet.

Contains EPA and DHA: These specific omega-3s are linked to improved brain function and reduced risk of heart disease.

Potassium: Helps regulate blood pressure and supports heart function.

Zinc: Important for immune function, wound healing, and protein synthesis.Remember that while eel offers these benefits, it should be consumed as part of a balanced diet, and some preparation methods (like deep-frying) may reduce its health benefits.

Who should avoid Eel

Pregnant women: Due to potential mercury content and other contaminants that could harm fetal development.

Nursing mothers: For the same reasons as pregnant women, to avoid passing contaminants to infants through breast milk.

Young children: Their developing nervous systems are more vulnerable to potential mercury contamination.

People with seafood allergies: Eel is a type of fish and may cause allergic reactions in those sensitive to seafood.

Individuals with gout: Eel is high in purines, which can exacerbate gout symptoms.

People with high cholesterol: Eel is relatively high in cholesterol and saturated fat.

Those with compromised immune systems: Raw or undercooked eel may contain parasites or bacteria that could be dangerous for immunocompromised individuals.

People taking blood thinners: Eel is high in vitamin A, which can interfere with blood-thinning medications.

Individuals with a history of kidney stones: The high purine content in eel can contribute to kidney stone formation in susceptible individuals.

Those following certain religious dietary restrictions: Some religions, like Judaism, consider eel non-kosher and prohibit its consumption.Remember, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized dietary advice.

Explore gluten management solutions like Tolerase® G.

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What is Tolerase® G?

A new Approach for People with Gluten Sensitivity:
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Relief from Gluten Sensitivity

In the fight against gluten, there is a unique supplement that stands out: Little Helpers anti-gluten pills with 100% Tolerase® G.

This specific enzyme, Tolerase® G, a patented endopeptidase specific for proline, was developed by  Royal DSM  and has been scientifically proven to be effective in breaking down gluten residues​ ( 1) ​. Furthermore, research has shown that Aspergillus niger prolyl endoprotease (AN-PEP), an enzyme closely related to Tolerase® G, can break down gluten so effectively that it barely reaches the duodenum, potentially eliminating gluten toxicity​ ( 2) ( ​​3 ) ​.

On this page we explain why we are so enthusiastic about this supplement, supported by scientific research.

What is Gluten?

Gluten is a group of proteins found primarily in grains such as wheat, barley, and rye. These complex proteins give shape, strength, and texture to bread and other grain products. However, gluten is difficult to digest because it is rich in proline, a non-essential amino acid. This is why about 13% of the world’s population is sensitive to gluten in their diet​ (1)​.

How Tolerase® G Works

It is important to note that Tolerase G is designed to have optimal activity in the difficult conditions of the stomach. Its effectiveness on the digestion of gluten in the stomach and duodenum has been scientifically proven ( 1 ).

Studies have shown that a newly identified prolyl endoprotease derived from Aspergillus niger can effectively break down gluten proteins. This enzyme works optimally at a pH of 4–5, remains stable at pH 2, and is completely resistant to digestion by pepsin ( 2 ). Furthermore, research has shown that Aspergillus niger prolyl endoprotease (AN-PEP) accelerates the breakdown of gluten in the stomach so much that very little gluten reaches the duodenum ( 3 ). This suggests that co-administration of AN-PEP with a meal containing gluten could potentially eliminate gluten toxicity, allowing people to (occasionally) abandon their strict gluten-free diet ( 3 ).

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Little Helpers & Tolerase® G: Stronger Together in the Fight against Gluten.

At Little Helpers we are proud of our unique partnership with the producer of Tolerase® G  DSM . Together we have spent 2.5 years of research and worked tirelessly to develop and perfect our gluten digestion pill, which contains 100% Tolerase® G.

Our shared commitment to quality and effectiveness has resulted in a product that is unmatched in the market. We have chosen to manufacture locally in Europe to ensure the highest quality standards and control.

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Little Helpers Anti-Gluten Pills contain 100% Tolerase® G. Tolerase® G is the only enzyme on the market that has been scientifically proven to be effective enough to break down gluten in the stomach to the point where the body no longer reacts to it.

Related Gluten Free Products
Quinoa: A nutrient-rich, gluten-free grain-like seed that's high in protein and fiber. It has a slightly nutty flavor and can be used as a substitute for rice or couscous in many dishes.
Buckwheat: Despite its name, buckwheat is not related to wheat and is naturally gluten-free. It has a robust, earthy flavor and can be used to make pancakes, noodles, or as a rice substitute.
Amaranth: An ancient grain that's naturally gluten-free and high in protein. It has a slightly peppery taste and can be popped like popcorn, cooked as a porridge, or used in baking.
Teff: A tiny, gluten-free grain native to Ethiopia. It's rich in nutrients and has a mild, nutty flavor. Teff can be used to make porridge, added to baked goods, or used as a thickener for soups and stews.
Sorghum: A gluten-free cereal grain with a mild, sweet flavor. It can be used to make flour for baking, cooked like rice, or even popped like popcorn for a healthy snack.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does eel have gluten?
Eel does not naturally contain gluten. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, which are not part of an eel's composition. However, some prepared eel dishes may contain gluten if they are cooked with sauces or coatings that include gluten-containing ingredients. It's always best to check the specific preparation method or ingredients list if you have gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Why is eel sauce not gluten-free?
Eel sauce typically contains wheat-based soy sauce as a primary ingredient. Soy sauce is made from fermented soybeans and wheat, which contains gluten. The wheat component in soy sauce is what makes eel sauce not gluten-free. For those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, it's important to be aware of this and look for gluten-free alternatives if necessary.
Why is sushi not gluten-free?
Sushi itself is not inherently gluten-containing, but many components used in sushi preparation can contain gluten. Soy sauce, which is commonly served with sushi, typically contains wheat as an ingredient. Some imitation crab meat (surimi) used in certain sushi rolls may also contain gluten as a binding agent. Additionally, certain sushi rolls may use tempura-battered ingredients or have other gluten-containing additions, making them unsuitable for those following a gluten-free diet.
Is there gluten in unagi?
Unagi, which is freshwater eel, does not naturally contain gluten. However, the sauce used in many unagi dishes often contains soy sauce, which typically contains wheat and therefore gluten. If you are gluten-sensitive, it's important to ask about the ingredients in the sauce or preparation method. For a gluten-free option, look for unagi prepared without sauce or with a gluten-free sauce alternative.

Our Expert

Drs. Ilse van Asperen

Is an Orthomolecular Therapist, Nutritional Coach & Professional Editor
Drs. Ilse van Asperen is a medical doctor specialising in orthomolecular therapy and nutritional coaching. With a background in public and clinical health research and management, she focuses on addressing the root causes of health issues through diet, gut health, and stress reduction. As a professional editor for Little Helpers, she reviews all gluten-free content to ensure accuracy, safety, and scientific credibility. More about me

Our Sources

The information on this page is based on reputable health and nutrition organisations, ensuring accuracy and reliability for anyone following a gluten-free diet. For further details, see the sources below.

Sources

  1. National Institutes of Health (NIH)

  2. Coeliac UK

  3. Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health

  4. Mayo Clinic

  5. World Health Organization (WHO)

  6. Celiac Disease Foundation

Experiences of our customers

Disclaimer: We do our best to provide accurate gluten information, but errors can happen. If you spot a mistake or have concerns, please contact us so we can make it right.