Planning a herring meal this Eid? Here’s how to safely enjoy it

CAIRO - 19 March 2026: Egyptians are eagerly planning for Eid Al-Fitr (Feast of Breaking the Fast) celebrations as the holy month of Ramadan comes to a close. 

 

Plans usually include going on picnics, having family gatherings, as well as eating cookies “Kahk” and special meals like herring [salted and smoked fish.]

 

During Eid Al-Fitr, there is a high demand for herring, which prompts nutrition experts to emphasize the importance of following a set of health guidelines to ensure a pleasant holiday without digestive problems or complications resulting from high salt levels in the body.

 

These tips come as part of a general awareness campaign to help avoid potential risks, especially for those with high blood pressure and kidney diseases.

 

Prevention begins with the preparation process. 

 

It is recommended to expose the herring to high heat, either through quick grilling or immersion in boiling water for a few minutes to kill any bacteria and reduce the sodium content.

 

It is also preferable to choose smoked herring with low salt content, ensuring the fish has a clean exterior and is free of any unpleasant odors or discoloration of the skin.

To counteract the high sodium content of herring, potassium emerges as a key ingredient for healthy digestion. Therefore, it is highly recommended to consume plenty of leafy green vegetables such as lettuce and arugula, along with green onions, which act as a natural stomach cleanser.

 

Lemons also play a vital role in cleansing the meal and enhancing its nutritional value, while tahini helps to reduce the saltiness and protects the stomach lining from inflammation.

 

The period after a meal is crucial for eliminating excess salt. Doctors warn against consuming carbonated drinks, which increase fluid retention, and recommend replacing them with herbal infusions such as: cinnamon, hibiscus, or green tea.

 

Drinking plenty of water (at least 3 liters throughout the day) remains the most effective way to help the kidneys function efficiently and prevent swelling or sudden spikes in blood pressure.