Can eels help regulate qi and blood?

Aug 15, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yu Yongchao
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, eels may have a certain auxiliary effect in regulating qi and blood, but attention should be paid to the method and quantity of consumption, as they cannot replace targeted regulation approaches. Eels must be thoroughly cooked to avoid parasitic or bacterial infections. Patients with gout should consume them cautiously due to their purine content. In daily life, regulating qi and blood requires a combination of regular作息 (作息 should be translated as "rest and activity patterns" or "daily routines") and a diet rich in iron and protein.

Generally, swamp eel has a certain auxiliary effect in regulating qi and blood, but attention should be paid to the method and quantity of consumption, as it cannot replace targeted regulation methods. The specific analysis is as follows:

Swamp eel is a common aquatic food item, containing high-quality protein, iron, B-complex vitamins, and various minerals. Iron directly participates in hemoglobin synthesis and helps prevent qi and blood deficiency caused by iron deficiency; B-complex vitamins aid in bodily metabolism and support the energy supply required for maintaining qi and blood circulation. Consuming an appropriate amount of swamp eel, prepared by steaming or making soup using light cooking methods, can supply these nutrients and provide foundational support for regulating qi and blood, typically without causing adverse reactions. However, excessive consumption or overly greasy cooking methods may increase the burden on the gastrointestinal tract, leading to discomfort such as bloating and indigestion, thereby affecting nutrient absorption.

Swamp eel must be thoroughly cooked to avoid parasitic or bacterial infection. Patients with gout should consume it cautiously, as it contains a certain amount of purines. In daily life, regulating qi and blood should be combined with regular rest, paired with foods rich in iron and protein, and maintaining a balanced diet to better maintain stable qi and blood levels.