Expert Tasks Nigerians on Healthy Eating Habits

Ibadan medical expert Dr. Ademola Tosin Ojo has advised Nigerians to adopt healthy and balanced eating habits for overall wellbeing and disease prevention. During a session on 'Healthy Eating and Nutrition – Food as Medicine', Ojo emphasized that a nutritious diet should encompass vegetables, fruits, beans, fish, eggs, whole grains, and other beneficial foods, while limiting excessive salt, added sugars, and unhealthy fats.

Ojo stressed that proper nutrition promotes energy, growth, immunity, and normal body functions, while simultaneously reducing the risk of diseases like heart disease and type 2 diabetes. He discouraged Nigerians from completely eliminating carbohydrates from their diets, but rather selecting nutritious, high-fibre sources and maintaining proper portion sizes.

The medical professional also encouraged the consumption of water as the primary beverage and a reduction in sugary drinks and highly processed foods. Ojo clarified that healthy eating need not be costly, as affordable locally accessible foods like beans, seasonal vegetables, fruits, and eggs can provide essential nutrients. He advised those living with hypertension and diabetes to adopt appropriate dietary habits while following their healthcare provider's treatment plans.

Ojo summarized his advice in three key principles: consuming a variety of nutritious foods, controlling portion sizes, and limiting excessive salt, added sugars, and unhealthy fats.