Anchovy sensitivity may result from its proteins, high histamine levels, or salt and preservatives. Avoid them for 8 weeks and consider alternatives like cod or chicken. Probiotics and vitamin C can help with inflammation and recovery.
🍨 What Are Anchovies?
Anchovies are small, oily fish commonly used in Mediterranean cuisine. Known for their strong flavor, they are often used in dishes like pizza, pasta, and salads and are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and vitamin B12.
🤔 Why Do I Have an Intolerance to Anchovies and Their Components?
Anchovy intolerance can result from:
- Parvalbumin: A protein in fish that commonly triggers sensitivities.
- Histamines: Anchovies, especially in preserved forms, have high histamine levels that can provoke reactions.
- Salt content: Processed anchovies are heavily salted, which can irritate sensitive systems.
- Preservatives: Additives in canned or preserved anchovies might contribute to sensitivity.
🛠️ What Can I Do About It?
- Avoid anchovies and dishes containing them for 8 weeks to reduce symptoms.
- Replace anchovies with alternative protein sources like chicken, tofu, or other mild fish.
- Retest after 8 weeks to evaluate whether your tolerance has improved.
💊 Supplements to Support Intolerance and Inflammation From Anchovies
Here are supplements to help manage symptoms:
- Digestive enzymes: Assist in breaking down fish proteins.
- Probiotics: Restore gut health and balance the microbiome.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: Support anti-inflammatory processes.
- Vitamin C: Helps reduce histamine sensitivity.
🌟 Why Do I Have an Intolerance to Anchovies but Not Other Fish?
Differences that might explain your sensitivity include:
- Protein content: Anchovies may have a higher concentration of parvalbumin.
- Histamine levels: Preserved anchovies have increased histamine due to processing methods.
- Salt content: Anchovies are much saltier than most other fish.
- Preservatives: Processed anchovies may include additives not found in fresh fish
🥥 Popular Dishes With Anchovies
- Caesar salad dressing
- Anchovy pizza
- Pasta puttanesca
- Anchovy butter
🥥 Alternatives to Anchovies
- Sardines
- Cod
- Haddock
- Chicken