Health Benefits Of Eel

Eels represent an order of fish that are elongated, ranging in length from 3.75 m (giant moray) to 5 cm (one-jawed eel). They do not have pelvic fins and most of the species lack pectoral fins also. Most of the eels inhabit shallow waters or hide at the bottom layer of the ocean. Some of them can be found in a depth of 4,000 m also. Eels are popular across the world and are consumed and prepared in many different ways, in different countries. They are consumed in the United States, Europe, Japan, Korea, China, New Zealand and other countries. Apart from their distinct flavor, they are also eaten because of the numerous health benefits that they offer. Read through the following lines to know the benefits of eating eel, along with their nutritional value.

Nutritional Value of Eel

Amount of Eel (fresh, raw): 1 fillet

Total Weight of Eel (fresh, raw): 204 g

Nutrients	Amount
Cholesterol	257 mg
Sodium	104 mg
Proteins	38 g
Water	139 g
Ash	2.9 g
Calories
Total Calories	375
Calories From Carbohydrates	0.2
Calories From Fat	215
Calories From Protein	161
Fats & Fatty Acids
Total Fat	23.8 g
Saturated Fat	4.8 g
Monounsaturated Fat	14.7 g
Polyunsaturated Fat	1.9 g
Total Omega-3 fatty acids	1332 mg
Total Omega-6 fatty acids	400 mg
Vitamins
Vitamin A	7093 IU
Vitamin C	3.7 mg
Vitamin E (Alpha Tocopherol)	8.2 mg
Thiamin	0.3 mg
Riboflavin	0.1 mg
Niacin	7.1 mg
Vitamin B6	0.1 mg
Folate	30.6 mcg
Vitamin B12	6.1 mcg
Pantothenic Acid	0.1 mg
Choline	133 mg
Minerals
Calcium	40.8 mg
Iron	1.0 mg
Magnesium	40.8 mg
Phosphorus	441 mg
Potassium	555 mg
Sodium	104 mg
Zinc	3.3 mg
Manganese	0.1 mg
Selenium	13.3 mcg

Nutrition and Health Benefits of Eating Eel

Eel does not contain sugar, and is low in sodium and high in phosphorus.
It is very rich in Vitamins A, B1, B2, B12, D and E, which are necessary for the body’s general wellbeing.
Eels possess substances that are best for rejuvenating the body in summer.
The fish decreases cholesterol, lowers blood pressure and reduces the risk of developing arthritis.
It promotes good eyesight, normal brain development and nervous system function.
Studies have shown that eels significantly reduce the chances of developing type-2 diabetes.
Since it is high in omega-3 content, high intake of eel can delay the development of diabetes in glucose intolerant individuals.
The fish helps in easing cardiovascular disease risk factors, like high triglyceride levels.
The skin, flesh and bones of an eel are capsulated in the powdered form, to make it more concentrated. This powdered form is consumed as an all-natural food supplement in Japan and some parts of Europe.
The powdered form is developed especially for elderly people who want to live with renewed strength, vitality and energy.
The Korean men consume eels as a good source of stamina.

Tips

Japanese use freshwater eels and marine eels for preparing foods such as Unadon and Unajuu.
Smoked eel is a delicacy in Germany, The Netherlands, Denmark and Sweden.
Jellied eels are a traditional East London food.

How to Cite

Related Articles

See also

More in 'Health & Fitness'