Health Benefits of Eating Eel (Igat)
Rose May Pimentel in Health
Oct 28, 2023 • 2 min Read
Eel or igat in Pilipino is delicious and nutritious fish that can grow up to several meters in length and has a snake-like appearance. It’s a popular type of seafood, particularly in Japan and other East Asian countries.
Eel contains a good amount of essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It is prepared and consumed in various ways, depending on regional culinary traditions and personal preferences.
Here are some of the amazing benefits of this wonderful fish:
1. Rich in Protein
Eel is a good source of high-quality protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting immune function, and maintaining muscle mass.
2. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Eel contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for their potential to reduce inflammation, support heart health, and promote brain function.
3. Vitamins and Minerals
The nutritional value of eel is extremely high, it can give all of the elements required for human growth and survival. Long-term eel consumption is incredibly beneficial for strengthening the body, increasing vitality, and nourishing the skin, particularly in pregnant women and infants.
4. Brain Health
The omega-3 fatty acids in eels are important for brain development and maintenance. Omega-3s may contribute to improved cognitive function and brain health.
5. Heart Health
The presence of omega-3 fatty acids and other nutrients in eel may support cardiovascular health by helping to lower blood pressure, reduce triglycerides, and improve overall heart function.
6. Weight Management
Eel’s protein content can help promote feelings of fullness and satiety, potentially aiding in weight management by reducing overeating.
7. Bone Health
Eel is a source of phosphorus and calcium, which are essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
8. Collagen Formation
Eel skin contains collagen, a protein that plays a role in maintaining skin elasticity and joint health.
9. Iron Source
Eel contains iron, an essential mineral involved in oxygen transport and energy production in the body.
Other Health Benefits:
* Zinc and Vitamin E
Eel has a high nutritional value and a high amount of zinc and vitamin E, which can help prevent aging and arteriosclerosis, as well as having skin care and aesthetic benefits.
* Vitamin A
It is worth mentioning that eel is rich in antioxidant nutrients, such as vitamin A. Eel has 60 times the vitamin A content of regular fish, 100 times the vitamin A content of beef, and more than 300 times the vitamin A content of pig. Vitamin A is a great supplement for those who are night-blind.
* Vitamin E
Eel has 9 times the vitamin content of other fish. Vitamin E is known as tocopherol, and it functions as an antioxidant, moisturizer, wrinkle reducer, and endocrine regulator, among other things.
* Vitamin B2
Eel is high in vitamin B2, also known as riboflavin; a deficiency causes angular cheilitis, cheilitis, conjunctivitis, and obstructive inflammation.
* Selenium
Eel contains selenium, which can improve immunity, delay aging, protect eyes, and maintain normal heart and liver functions.
Eel is considered a superfood. If you’re looking to add more healthy foods to your diet, eel is a great choice.
Stay healthy and safe!
