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Sea Urchin and Gut Health
Sea urchin is a delicacy from the sea, prized for its unique flavor and creamy texture. While it is not a true mollusc, it is often grouped with molluscs in allergen labeling. Sea urchin can impact gut health in several ways, especially for those with sensitivities to histamine or seafood allergies.
- Sea urchin is not a source of FODMAPs and contains no fiber
- Can be high in histamine and acts as a histamine liberator
- Seafood allergies, including to sea urchin, are possible
- May contain moderate nickel, relevant for nickel-sensitive individuals
- No prebiotic or fermentable fiber content
Sea Urchin and FODMAP Content
Sea urchin contains no FODMAPs, making it suitable for people following a low-FODMAP diet for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or other gut sensitivities. Since it is an animal product and contains no carbohydrates or fibers, it does not contribute to FODMAP-related symptoms like bloating or gas.
| FODMAPs | Level | Portion Guidance |
|---|---|---|
|
Monosaccharides (Fructose)
|
Low | — |
|
Disaccharides (Lactose)
|
Low | — |
|
Fructooligosaccharides (Fructans)
|
Low | — |
|
Galactooligosaccharides (GOS)
|
Low | — |
|
Polyols (Mannitol)
|
Low | — |
|
Polyols (Sorbitol)
|
Low | — |
Histamine and Histamine Liberation in Sea Urchin
Sea urchin can be high in histamine, especially if not extremely fresh. It is also considered a histamine liberator, meaning it can trigger the release of histamine in the body. People with histamine intolerance or mast cell activation should be cautious, as sea urchin may provoke symptoms such as flushing, headache, or digestive upset.
| Histamine & Related | Level | Portion Guidance |
|---|---|---|
|
Histamine Level
|
Moderate |
|
|
Other Biogenic Amines
|
Low–Moderate |
|
|
Histamine Liberator
|
High | — |
|
DAO Blocker
|
Low | — |
Seafood Allergies and Sea Urchin
Although sea urchin is technically an echinoderm and not a true mollusc, it is often grouped with molluscs in allergen labeling. Allergic reactions to sea urchin are possible, especially in individuals with existing seafood or shellfish allergies. Symptoms can include digestive distress, hives, or more severe reactions.
Details
- Absent Wheat / Spelt
- Absent Rye
- Absent Barley
- Absent Oats
Details
- Absent Crabs
- Absent Prawns
- Absent Shrimp
- Absent Lobsters
- Absent Crayfish
Details
- Absent Almonds
- Absent Brazil Nuts
- Absent Cashews
- Absent Hazelnuts
- Absent Macadamia Nuts
- Absent Pecans
- Absent Pistachios
- Absent Walnuts
Details
- Absent Clams
- Absent Mussels
- Absent Octopus
- Absent Oysters
- Absent Snails
- Absent Squid
Fiber and Prebiotic Content in Sea Urchin
Sea urchin contains no dietary fiber, soluble or insoluble. It does not provide prebiotic benefits or support the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. Its impact on gut health is therefore unrelated to fiber or fermentable carbohydrate content.
Nickel Content in Sea Urchin
Like many types of seafood, sea urchin may contain moderate levels of nickel. This can be relevant for people with nickel sensitivity or nickel allergy, who may experience gut symptoms or skin reactions after consuming nickel-containing foods.