Health Guidelines for Pregnant Women to Safely Enjoy Fish during Eid

Eid Al-Fitr, an annual celebration, comes with distinct traditions that have been passed down through generations. Despite cultural differences across Arab nations, many of these celebrations share common customs, such as preparing Eid cookies and enjoying salted fish, like "feseekh" (salted fish) and "herring," during the holiday's breakfast and lunch.

In this context, Dr. Lama Suleiman, a specialist in therapeutic nutrition, shared her insights on the health guidelines for pregnant women consuming salted fish during Eid, highlighting both their limited benefits and potential risks if consumed excessively.

What Are Feseekh and Herring?

Feseekh (Salted Fish):

Feseekh is a preserved fish traditionally made through salting to extend the shelf life of the food. The process of salting fish dates back thousands of years and was a method of preservation before refrigeration was available. However, improperly salted fish can pose health risks, especially for pregnant women, as it may lead to foodborne illnesses like food poisoning, which is a concern if the fish is improperly handled.

Herring:

Herring is prepared differently from feseekh, typically through smoking or cooking at high temperatures to eliminate excess moisture and kill bacteria. While smoked herring has a lower health risk than salted fish, its quality depends on whether it was prepared with sanitary conditions, such as ensuring it was cooked in proper ovens at high temperatures.

Risks of Consuming Salted Fish During Pregnancy

Pregnant women should be cautious about consuming feseekh and herring, especially when bought from unreliable street vendors. Eating improperly prepared salted fish can lead to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps—signs of potential food poisoning.

The main health risks include:

• Toxoplasmosis: The risk of toxoplasmosis, a parasitic infection, is higher with salted fish. This infection can be transmitted to the fetus, leading to serious complications.

• Listeriosis: Salted fish, especially feseekh, may carry the bacteria Listeria monocytogenes, which can cause listeriosis. While rare, this infection can lead to severe complications like premature labor, stillbirth, or infections in newborns.

Although salted fish can be a source of protein, antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, and phosphorus, it is important to limit consumption due to its high salt content. Excessive salt intake can also increase the risk of high blood pressure in pregnant women.

Safe Consumption Guidelines for Pregnant Women

1. Preparation:
   The safest option is to prepare feseekh at home, ensuring proper hygiene and the use of safe salting methods. For herring, always buy it from trusted sources and check that the packaging is intact, with no dents or signs of damage.

2. Moderation:
   Limit your intake to small portions, no larger than a piece the size of your palm. Always wash the fish thoroughly with water, lemon, and vinegar, and ensure all internal organs are removed.

3. Balance with Other Foods:
   To help flush out excess salt from your body, eat potassium-rich foods like oranges, bananas, parsley, and cantaloupe. Including fresh vegetables such as lettuce, arugula, and green onions with the fish will help neutralize the effects of excess salt.

4. Avoid Carbonated Drinks:
   Avoid drinking carbonated beverages to aid digestion as they can worsen fluid retention, especially due to the high salt content in salted fish.

By following these guidelines, pregnant women can minimize the risks associated with consuming salted fish and enjoy the festive foods of Eid in a safe and healthy way.