Health Experts Warn Against Carbonated Drinks Following Salted Fish Meals

Health officials are advising against the consumption of carbonated beverages immediately after eating salted fish, warning that the combination can lead to adverse physiological reactions and long-term health complications.

On April 13, 2026, Dr. Ahmed Hamdi, Director General of the Veterinary Medicine Directorate in Sohag Governorate, cautioned the public about the risks of drinking sodas after consuming “Mallocha” (salted fish). According to Hamdi, the sodium bicarbonate present in carbonated drinks can trigger the retention of fluids and salts within the body, creating an unnecessary health burden.

To mitigate these effects, Hamdi recommends avoiding sodas after salty foods

by opting for potassium-rich fruits, specifically bananas, oranges and cantaloupe, which assist the body in flushing out excess salts. He further suggested replacing soft drinks with herbal infusions such as green tea, hibiscus, mint, or cinnamon to help cleanse the stomach.

The specific warning regarding salted meals aligns with broader concerns about the long-term impact of carbonated beverages. Professor Dr. Tariq Ahmed Al-Shaibani, a faculty member at the Gulf Arab University’s Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences and a member of the Bahrain Diabetes Society, has described these drinks as a silent danger causing diabetes

and other chronic conditions. Al-Shaibani noted that excessive consumption—sometimes reaching several liters a day—is particularly prevalent among young people.

According to Al-Shaibani, the health risks are tied to several factors:

• Chemical Additives: Some beverages contain phosphoric acid and other industrial compounds that can have cumulative negative effects on the body.
• Metabolic Impact: High sugar levels and acidity contribute to obesity and the weakening of bone structure.
• Digestive Interference: The low temperature of these drinks can hinder the effectiveness of digestive enzymes.

In addition to dietary warnings, Dr. Hamdi provided guidance for consumers on how to identify high-quality salted fish. He noted that larger fish (males) typically feature visible teeth and a more abundant amount of meat, while medium-sized fish (females) are identified by a wider belly and a softer meat texture.

These warnings underscore a growing medical emphasis on the cumulative effects of industrial food additives and the importance of nutrient-balancing meals to protect long-term metabolic health.