20 Unhealthy Nigerian food – Medical doctor & Dietician Perspectives.
medical doctor on X, Prince Fynn, took time out to list out a number of foods in Nigeria which he tagged “20 unhealthy Nigerian foods”….as he listed below:
“20 Unhealthy Nigerian food”
(1) Shawarma
(2) Pizza
(3) Hot dogs
(4) Noodles
(5) Bread
(6) Foreign rice
(7) Spaghetti
(8) Snacks
(9) Butter
(10) Sardines
(11) Canned food
(12) Sugars
(13) Soft drinks
(14) Energy drinks
(15) Semo
(16) Ofe akwu ( banga soup) Eat but in moderation. The red oil in that soup is to much….
(17) Biscuits
(18) Ice cream
(19) Imported fruits
Eat our local fruits
(20) Hydrogenated oils are Poison
Eventhough his post got a lot of likes and retweets with widespread reactions, he failed to give reasons behind why he thinks all these foods are harmful or unsafe…
Now, a dietician on X, Odukoya Fiyinfoluwa, countered his claims stating that not all the foods he listed are unhealthy with reasons….
I think the dietician’s scientific logic makes more sense….
The dietician’s counter-claim:
Thank you for sharing your list of unhealthy Nigerian foods.
While some of the items on your list do raise valid concerns about overconsumption and processing, I want to clarify a few things from a nutritionist’s perspective.
As a clinical nutritionist with extensive experience and a degree in Nutrition and Dietetics, I base my advice on science and facts to ensure that I provide evidence-based recommendations.
Shawarma, Pizza, Hot Dogs: These foods, like many fast foods, can be high in saturated fats, sodium, and calories.
However, healthier versions can be made with whole grains, lean proteins, and veggies.
Noodles, Bread, Foreign Rice, Spaghetti: These can be part of a balanced diet when eaten in moderation and with whole-grain options.
Butter: In small amounts, butter isn’t necessarily harmful.
It’s all about moderation and ensuring it’s balanced with other healthy fats, such as those from nuts and seeds.
Sardines: Sardines are actually a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health.
The issue is often with the oil or sauce they come in, not the fish itself.
Canned Foods: Some canned foods, especially beans and vegetables, are nutritious. The key is to watch out for added sodium and preservatives.
Sugars, Soft Drinks, Energy Drinks: These can indeed contribute to health problems, especially when consumed in excess.
Limiting added sugars is crucial for maintaining a healthy diet.
Semo and Ofe Akwu: Semo (and other “swallows”) can be part of a balanced diet when portion-controlled.
Banga soup’s red oil is rich in antioxidants like Vitamin E, but moderation is key, as with all oils.
Imported Fruits: Local fruits are excellent, but imported fruits can still provide essential nutrients.
The focus should be on variety and nutrient density.
Hydrogenated Oils: Yes, these are harmful due to trans fats, which increase the risk of heart disease.
The key is not to label foods as entirely “bad” or “good” but to focus on balance, moderation, and making informed choices.
As an expert, I always advocate for sustainable and practical nutritional advice based on individual needs.
Thank you 🙏
