Haddock

🍨 What Is Haddock?

Haddock is a white, lean saltwater fish belonging to the cod family (Gadidae). It’s known for its mild, slightly sweet flavor and flaky texture, making it a popular choice for dishes like fish and chips, baked haddock, or smoked haddock chowder. Haddock is rich in protein, vitamin B12, phosphorus, and selenium, while being naturally low in fat.

🤔 Why Might Sensitivity to Haddock Occur?

Reactions to haddock can occur due to natural compounds and how the fish is prepared or stored:

• Proteins: Specific fish proteins unique to haddock may overstimulate sensitive immune or digestive systems.

• Histamines: Improper storage or smoking can increase histamine levels, leading to flushing, headaches, or digestive upset.

• Fish Oils: Though haddock is lean, its trace omega-3 fats may still irritate sensitive digestive tracts.

If you tolerate other fish, it may be due to differences in protein composition, freshness, or preparation methods between haddock and those species.

🛠️ Supportive Wellness Approaches

🚫 Avoid for 8 Weeks: Eliminate haddock and haddock-based recipes (like smoked or salted varieties) to let your system rebalance.
🔁 Reintroduce Gradually: After 8 weeks, try a small portion of fresh haddock and monitor your response.
🐟 Try Alternatives: Opt for other mild fish such as cod, pollock, or tilapia if tolerated.
🧾 Track Symptoms: Use a food journal to identify recurring triggers and patterns.

💊 Supportive General Supplements

• Digestive Enzymes: Help break down fish proteins to improve tolerance.

• Probiotics: Support gut microbiome health and reduce inflammation.

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids (from algae): Provide anti-inflammatory support without fish-based sources.

• Vitamin C: Assists in lowering histamine response and oxidative stress.

🌟 Why Might Sensitivity Occur with Haddock but Not Other Fish?

• Protein Differences: Haddock proteins differ structurally from those in cod or salmon, potentially triggering a unique response.

• Histamine Potential: Haddock, especially when smoked or not properly chilled, can develop moderate histamine levels.

• Preparation Variations: Smoked haddock often contains additives or curing agents that fresh fish do not.

These factors can make haddock more likely to cause symptoms even if other fish are well tolerated.

🍽️ Popular Dishes Using Haddock

• Fish and Chips

• Smoked Haddock Chowder

• Baked Haddock with Lemon

🥥 Alternatives to Haddock

• Cod

• Tilapia

• Pollock