Fish and Shellfish: What's the Difference?

Summer always brings back memories of growing up near the lake, fishing off the end of the dock and sometimes cooking up the fish we caught.  I always make more fish during the summer months than the rest of the year, which has to do with both the availability of fresh fish, but also the fact that if I overcook it I can open up the windows and air our place out J While fish provides a great deal of omega-3 fats, the anti-inflammatory kind of "good fats," that are great for autoimmune diseases that cause chronic inflammation, many people with autoimmune issues also have food allergies and intolerances.

Issues involving the immune system (well, our whole-being, for that matter) do not take place in isolation, but are connected in a number of different ways.  Therefore, having multiple allergies, autoimmune diseases and intolerances is not abnormal for people with compromised immune systems and special dietary needs (SDNs).  Thus, I am often asked questions about allergies and sensitivites.

One question I'm often asked is, “what is the difference between fish and shellfish?” I think it’s a great question because it lets me know that people are being thoughtful about the seemingly delicate nuances between the two, and are taking the matter seriously!

Fish

Fish is a sweeping description of any water-living animal, but in most cases is used to describe anything with fins, gills, a backbone and skull (McWilliams, 2012).

Shellfish

Within the broader Fish category, Shellfish is a subgroup that includes Mollusks (shellfish with a protective shell) and crustaceans (shellfish with a malleable and spiky top layer) (McWilliams, 2012).

Keep in Mind:

• It is possible to have an allergy to shellfish but be able to tolerate other types of fish and vice versa, however, often times that is not the case or people just feel more comfortable avoiding the whole lot.
• If you have any type of anaphylactic allergy or know someone who does you need to be familiar with this website for The Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network (click here). It offers research-solid information and tips!

Be well,

Lacey