Hake and Gut Health

Hake is a mild-flavored white saltwater fish enjoyed in many cuisines. It is a lean protein source, naturally free from carbohydrates and fiber. While hake is generally easy to digest, it can pose issues for those with fish allergies or histamine intolerance. Its gut impact depends on freshness, preparation, and individual sensitivities.

Hake
  • Naturally free from FODMAPs and fiber
  • Can be high in histamine if not extremely fresh
  • Fish is a major allergen (EU14)
  • Low in fat and easy to digest for most people
  • No prebiotic or fermentable fibers
  • Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans

Hake and FODMAP Content

Hake contains no FODMAPs, making it suitable for people following a low-FODMAP diet or those with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). As a pure protein food, hake does not contribute fermentable carbohydrates that can cause bloating or discomfort. It is a safe protein choice for those sensitive to FODMAPs.

Hake - FODMAP Profile
FODMAPs Level Portion Guidance
Monosaccharides (Fructose)
Low
Disaccharides (Lactose)
Low
Fructooligosaccharides (Fructans)
Low
Galactooligosaccharides (GOS)
Low
Polyols (Mannitol)
Low
Polyols (Sorbitol)
Low

Histamine in Hake: Freshness Matters

Histamine levels in hake can rise quickly after the fish is caught. Fresh hake is low in histamine, but improper storage or delayed consumption can lead to high histamine content. People with histamine intolerance should only eat hake that is extremely fresh and properly refrigerated to avoid symptoms like headaches, flushing, or digestive upset.

Hake — Histamine Profile
Histamine & Related Level Portion Guidance
Histamine Level
Moderate
  • ≤ 50 g = Low
  • 51–100 g = Moderate
  • > 100 g = High
Other Biogenic Amines
Low–Moderate
  • ≤ 100 g = Low–Moderate
  • > 100 g = Moderate
Histamine Liberator
Moderate
DAO Blocker
Low

Fish Allergy and Hake

Hake is a common trigger for fish allergies, which are classified as a major allergen in the EU. Allergic reactions can range from mild oral symptoms to severe anaphylaxis. Anyone with a known fish allergy should strictly avoid hake and foods containing it.

Hake — Allergy Profile
EU Major Allergens
🌾
Cereals with Gluten
Absent
Details
  • Absent Wheat / Spelt
  • Absent Rye
  • Absent Barley
  • Absent Oats
🦐
Crustaceans
Absent
Details
  • Absent Crabs
  • Absent Prawns
  • Absent Shrimp
  • Absent Lobsters
  • Absent Crayfish
🥚
Eggs
Absent
🐟
Fish
Present
🥜
Peanuts
Absent
🌱
Soy
Absent
🥛
Milk
Absent
🌰
Tree Nuts
Absent
Details
  • Absent Almonds
  • Absent Brazil Nuts
  • Absent Cashews
  • Absent Hazelnuts
  • Absent Macadamia Nuts
  • Absent Pecans
  • Absent Pistachios
  • Absent Walnuts
🍃
Celery
Absent
🧂
Mustard
Absent
🧈
Sesame
Absent
🧪
Sulphur Dioxide & Sulphites
Absent
🌼
Lupin
Absent
🐚
Molluscs
Absent
Details
  • Absent Clams
  • Absent Mussels
  • Absent Octopus
  • Absent Oysters
  • Absent Snails
  • Absent Squid
Other Allergens
🥥
Coconut
Absent
🍯
Honey
Absent
🧫
Yeast
Absent

Digestibility and Preparation of Hake

Hake is low in fat and contains no fiber, making it easy to digest for most people. Steaming, baking, or poaching are gentle preparation methods that support gut comfort. Fried or heavily seasoned hake may be harder to tolerate for those with sensitive digestion or reflux.

Fiber and Prebiotic Content in Hake

Hake contains no dietary fiber or prebiotic compounds. It does not directly feed beneficial gut bacteria, so it should be paired with fiber-rich vegetables or grains for a balanced gut-friendly meal.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hake and Gut Health

Is hake low in FODMAPs?

Yes, hake contains no FODMAPs and is suitable for low-FODMAP diets.

Can hake cause histamine reactions?

Yes, hake can be high in histamine if not fresh. Only eat very fresh hake if you have histamine intolerance.

Is hake safe for people with fish allergies?

No, hake is a fish and a major allergen. Avoid it if you have a fish allergy.

Is hake easy to digest?

Hake is low in fat and fiber, making it easy to digest for most people.

Does hake provide any fiber or prebiotics?

No, hake contains no fiber or prebiotic compounds.