Salmon is a popular and nutritious food that is often recommended as part of a healthy diet. But a lot of people are worried about the possible side effects of eating salmon, especially whether it makes you gassy and bloated. This article will talk about the link between eating salmon and digestive problems and give you important facts and advice to help you decide if you should eat this fish or not.
Salmon is renowned as a nutritious fish full of protein, omega-3s, and essential nutrients. However, some individuals experience stomach pain and discomfort after eating salmon. If this sounds familiar, you may be wondering why salmon seems to hurt your stomach and what you can do to prevent it.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the potential reasons salmon can cause stomach aches, solutions to alleviate discomfort, and tips to continue enjoying this tasty fish without the nasty side effects.
Key Reasons Salmon Could Be Hurting Your Stomach
There are a few possible culprits behind salmon stomach pain
You Have a Salmon Allergy
It’s estimated up to 6% of people have some level of allergy to fish and shellfish. An allergy to salmon can cause digestive symptoms like stomach cramps, nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting after consumption. See an allergist if you suspect you may have a salmon allergy.
Contamination or Food Poisoning
Salmon that is spoiled or contaminated can contain bacteria, parasites, or toxins that are bad for your digestive system. Symptoms may include abdominal cramping, nausea, diarrhea, headache, and fever. Only eat properly handled and thoroughly cooked salmon.
High Fat Content
The high amount of omega-3 fats in salmon can aggravate digestion for those with gallbladder issues or sensitive stomachs. Fat intake triggers gallbladder contraction and release of bile, which may cause discomfort.
Presence of Environmental Pollutants
Farmed salmon and some wild salmon contain concerning levels of pollutants like PCBs, dioxins, and mercury. Exposure to these contaminants may irritate the digestive tract.
You Have an Intolerance to Histamine or Purines
Some individuals don’t properly metabolize histamine or purines, compounds abundant in fish like salmon. This can generate symptoms mimicking food poisoning.
Tips to Prevent Salmon Stomach Pain
If salmon gives you tummy trouble, there are some simple precautions you can take to enjoy it without issue:
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Stick to wild-caught salmon over farmed to limit contaminant exposure.
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Opt for smaller 4-6 oz portions vs 8-12 oz to reduce fat intake.
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Grill, bake, or poach instead of frying to decrease high-fat cooking methods.
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Ensure salmon reaches 145°F internally to kill any parasites or bacteria present.
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When dining out, request salmon cooked medium or well-done to be safe.
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Take an antihistamine before eating salmon if you have a histamine intolerance.
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Avoid eating the skin and fattier dark meat which are higher in fat and histamine.
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Request sashimi salmon be flash frozen first to kill any parasites.
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Buy fresh, properly chilled salmon and eat within 2 days of purchase.
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If pregnant, limit salmon to 2-3 servings per week to restrict mercury ingestion.
What to Do if Your Stomach Still Hurts After Eating Salmon
If you take precautions but still experience salmon stomach pain, here are some remedies to relieve discomfort:
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Take a digestive enzyme supplement containing lipase to better break down fat.
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Activated charcoal capsules can help bind toxins or irritants and calm an upset stomach.
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Drink ginger or peppermint tea to ease indigestion and reduce inflammation.
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Apply a heated pad and gentle massage to the abdomen to relieve cramping.
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Take antacids containing calcium carbonate or magnesium to neutralize stomach acid.
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Get more rest and hydration to support digestive health and recovery.
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Maintain a bland diet of BRAT foods (bananas, rice, applesauce, toast) until symptoms subside.
When to See a Doctor for Salmon Stomach Ache
In most cases, salmon related stomach pain is mild and temporary. However, consult a physician if you experience:
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Lip or tongue swelling
- Hives, itchy rash, or severe redness
- Fever over 101°F
- Bloody stool or vomit
- Diarrhea lasting over 48 hours
- Inability to keep any fluids down
These could signal a serious food allergy reaction, severe food poisoning, or underlying digestive disorder requiring medical treatment. Don’t hesitate to seek emergency care if symptoms are severe or persist.
Safe Fish Alternatives If Salmon Bothers Your Stomach
While rich in omega-3s, salmon isn’t your only option. Try these fish in place of salmon:
- Arctic char – mild flavor similar to salmon.
- Rainbow trout – related to salmon but with less fat.
- Albacore tuna – high in omega-3s but much lower in fat.
- Sardines – packed with nutrients and easy to digest.
- Scallops – no fishy flavor and easily tolerated.
- Tilapia – affordable, mild white fish.
- Cod – flaky, lean white fish.
- Flounder – low fat so less taxing on the stomach.
Branch out and experiment with other seafood if salmon continues to cause discomfort. You can still get those beneficial omega-3s without the stomach pain.
Can Probiotics Help With Salmon Digestion?
Probiotics are gut-beneficial bacteria that aid digestion. Studies indicate probiotic supplements may reduce severity of common salmon poisoning symptoms like cramps, nausea, and diarrhea.
Probiotics help:
- Break down and absorb salmon proteins and fats
- Protect stomach lining from inflammation
- Inhibit growth of harmful bacteria
- Regulate bowel function
Look for broad spectrum probiotic blends with strains like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium to support salmon digestion.
Don’t Miss Out on Salmon’s Great Nutrition
Now that you know why salmon might be causing stomach upset and how to prevent it, you don’t have to shy away from enjoying this nutrient-dense fish. With a few simple precautions, tips, and remedies, you can continue reaping salmon’s impressive health benefits without the unwanted side effects.
Try varying your cooking methods, reducing portion sizes, taking digestive aids, and choosing sustainable sources to find what works for your body. Pay attention to any personal intolerances. With some adjustments, salmon can stay comfortably on the menu and deliver key proteins, minerals, healthy fats and more to support your wellbeing.
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Understanding the Nutritional Value of Salmon
Before we go any further on the subject of salmon and digestive problems, it’s important to know what nutrients salmon contains. Salmon is a great way to get protein, vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, and minerals like calcium, iron, and selenium. These nutrients are beneficial for healthy bones, skin, and brain function. Salmon is also low in saturated fat, which makes it a good choice for people who want to lower their cholesterol.
Furthermore, salmon is known to have anti-inflammatory properties due to the presence of omega-3 fatty acids. These traits can lower the risk of long-term illnesses like heart disease, arthritis, and even some types of cancer. Studies have shown that eating salmon regularly can lower the risk of heart disease by as much as 30%.
Its also worth noting that not all salmon is created equal. Wild-caught salmon is generally considered to be a healthier option than farmed salmon. This is because chemicals and pollutants that are bad for you are less likely to be in wild salmon than in farmed salmon. When purchasing salmon, its important to read the label carefully and opt for wild-caught salmon whenever possible.
The Benefits of Eating Salmon for Your Health
Aside from its nutritional value, salmon has several health benefits. Omega-3 fatty acids, which are found in salmon, have been shown to lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation, and protect against heart disease. Regular consumption of salmon can also improve brain function, reduce depression, and enhance eye health. Furthermore, some researchers have linked eating salmon to a lower risk of certain types of cancer.
In addition to the health benefits mentioned above, salmon is also a great source of protein. About 22 grams of protein, which is needed to build and repair body tissues, are in a 3-ounce serving of salmon. This makes salmon an excellent food choice for athletes and individuals who are looking to build muscle mass.
Another benefit of eating salmon is that it is a low-calorie food. Salmon is a great food for people who are trying to lose weight or keep their weight at a healthy level because a 3-ounce serving only has about 175 calories. Salmon is also a filling food that can help you feel full for longer, which can keep you from eating too much and snacking on unhealthy foods.
What Eating Salmon Every Day Does To Your Body
FAQ
Why does my stomach hurt after I eat salmon?
Why do I feel bad after eating salmon?
Can salmon make you sick to your stomach?
Why is salmon hard to digest?
Why does my stomach hurt after eating salmon?
However, some individuals may experience stomach discomfort after consuming salmon, leading them to wonder why this occurs. One possible reason for stomach pain after eating salmon is a sensitivity or allergy to the fish. Salmon allergies are not as common as other food allergies, but they do exist.
What causes sharp pain in the stomach?
The causes of sharp pain in the stomach are appendicitis, pancreatitis, gallstones, urinary tract infections, gastric ulcer, flatulence, menstrual cramps, ovarian cysts, peptic ulcer, irritable bowel syndrome, ulcerative colitis, diverticulitis, Crohn’s disease, ectopic pregnancy, indigestion, food poisoning, ovulation pain, and lactose intolerance.
Can undercooked salmon cause stomach problems?
Yes, undercooked salmon can contain bacteria or parasites that may cause food poisoning and result in stomach discomfort. It is important to ensure that salmon is cooked thoroughly to prevent this. 4. What is the best way to store salmon to avoid stomach issues?
Does salmon make you feel dizzy?
To determine whether you have it, the best thing to do is get yourself tested for allergies. A few Redditors had another theory: salmon is very fatty and could make you feel dizzy if you don’t eat oily foods as much. In a way, it makes sense. Lately, I haven’t been eating fatty meat or oily seafood more than once per week.