Fish swim bladder is a 'precious remedy' for bones and joints.
With its high content of collagen, protein, and amino acids, this food offers numerous health benefits, from wound healing and digestive support to boosting the immune system.
Fish swim bladders are the buoyant parts of fish that help them maintain their position in the water. Although rarely used in meals, they are a very nutritious part of the fish.
In many other Asian countries such as China and Japan, fish maw is a valuable ingredient in cuisine, often used in nutritious soups or stews. Dried fish maw is even considered a high-end commodity with significant economic value.
Fish swim bladders contain many nutrients that are important for the body. According to a study published in a journal.Journal of Food BiochemistryFish swim bladders contain a very high amount of collagen.
In China, fish maw has become a delicacy and is believed to improve health. Photo: Healthy Nest.
Collagen is a vital protein, making up 70% of human skin and playing a crucial role in cell regeneration and repair, keeping skin soft, healthy, and preventing aging. Beyond its benefits for the skin, collagen also improves the health of hair, nails, and joints.
In addition to collagen, fish swim bladders contain a large amount of protein, amino acids, and minerals. These components help the body regenerate cells, promote wound healing, and play a role in the production of enzymes necessary for the body.
A report fromFood Science and Technology ResearchThis shows that protein from fish swim bladders has a special structure, making it more easily absorbed into the body compared to proteins from other foods.
Strengthen bone and joint health
Collagen in fish swim bladders not only helps maintain skin elasticity and firmness, but also plays a crucial role in protecting and strengthening the health of the musculoskeletal system.
Numerous studies have shown that collagen can reduce inflammation, helping to alleviate arthritis symptoms and maintain joint flexibility. This is especially helpful for older adults or those who frequently engage in strenuous physical activity.
According to a 2018 study from Harvard University, collagen from fish swim bladders has the potential to stimulate the production of synovial fluid in the joints, helping them function more smoothly and reducing the risk of osteoarthritis as we age.
Supports the digestive system and enhances nutrient absorption.
Besides being rich in collagen, fish swim bladders also contain many essential amino acids such as glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline.
Glycine has been shown in numerous studies to aid digestion, protect the gastric mucosa, and enhance nutrient absorption. Simultaneously, glycine can improve cell regeneration in the gastric and intestinal lining, helping to reduce the risk of digestive-related diseases.
A 2021 study by the University of Tokyo confirmed that glycine from fish swim bladders has the potential to reduce the risk of stomach ulcers and promote recovery from injury.
Assists in wound healing.
Another study from the University of Southern California showed that fish swim bladders contain high levels of arginine, an amino acid that plays an important role in wound healing.
Arginine helps the body produce more nitric oxide, a compound essential for improving blood circulation, delivering nutrients and oxygen to injured areas to promote healing.
This explains why, in traditional Chinese medicine, fish swim bladder has been used for centuries as a remedy to aid wound healing and treat blood-related diseases.
Boost your immune system.
The high protein content in fish swim bladders also helps boost the immune system. Essential amino acids like lysine, found in fish swim bladders, play a crucial role in antibody production, helping the body fight off disease-causing bacteria and viruses.
A study in a journalJournal of Nutritional BiochemistryIn 2020, it was demonstrated that lysine from fish swim bladders can help improve immunity, especially during periods of weakened immunity or recovery from illness.
