Nutrition experts have raised concerns over unhealthy cooking methods that are prevalent in Nigerian kitchens and their potential health risks. They particularly emphasised the dangers of frying, urging Nigerians to embrace alternatives like sautéing, broiling, grilling, or baking, to preserve nutrients. Prof. Ignatius Onimawo, a Public Health Nutrition expert and Vice-Chancellor of Ave Maria University, shared some insights in an interview with Punch Healthwise. He warned that frequent consumption of fried foods, especially when cooked with reused or overheated oils, can increase the risk of serious health issues. Overheating oil and reusing it multiple times can lead to the formation of trans fats, which are linked to high blood pressure, heart disease, and atherosclerosis.
The professor explained that while using cooking oil is not inherently harmful, overuse and overheating of oil in the frying pan could pose significant health risks. He advised Nigerians, especially those over 40, to minimise frying and avoid reusing oil more than twice. He further stressed the importance of reducing oil usage when cooking soups, as excessive oil can contribute to increased energy intake and health problems. For protein dishes, Onimawo suggested grilling as a healthier alternative to frying, noting that it helps avoid the negative effects of excessive oil.
Nigerians urged to embrace healthier cooking methods.
Beatrice Ogunba, a Professor of Public Health Nutrition at the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), echoed these concerns, urging Nigerians to adopt healthier cooking methods. While speaking to Punch Healthwise, Ogunba pointed out that grilling, rather than frying, is an effective way to reduce oil intake and preserve the nutritional value of food. She also highlighted that many Nigerians cook with an excess of oil, especially in dishes like jollof rice, which can leave pools of oil in takeaway containers or plates. She called for a shift in cooking habits to reduce oil usage and prevent the negative health consequences associated with excessive fat intake.
Both experts emphasised that adopting healthier cooking methods is vital for improving health outcomes, especially as Nigeria grapples with a rise in chronic conditions like Hypertension and cardiovascular diseases. Their advice to reduce oil usage in cooking aligns with broader efforts to promote healthier diets and lifestyle choices. Methods like grilling, baking, and steaming, they suggested, preserve the nutritional quality of meals while reducing the risk of health complications. By making these changes, Nigerians can lower their risk of chronic diseases and improve overall health.
Public health campaigns could drive healthier cooking habits.
Moreover, the shift towards healthier cooking practices is particularly crucial given the increasing prevalence of lifestyle diseases, including obesity. With health challenges on the rise, it is essential for Nigerians to reassess their cooking habits and recognise how these practices impact their well-being. Traditional methods, such as deep frying and excessive oil use, have long been staples of Nigerian cuisine, but growing awareness of their health risks highlights the need for change. Embracing healthier cooking techniques could significantly reduce the negative impact of these habits on public health.
Furthermore, nutrition Education is crucial in transforming cooking habits, as many Nigerians remain unaware of the health risks linked to common practices like deep frying and excessive oil use. Staples like jollof rice and fried meats, while popular, can lead to long-term health issues when consumed regularly. Public health campaigns promoting healthier alternatives, such as grilling, baking, or steaming, could improve health outcomes. Additionally, the government can support these changes by making cooking equipment like grills and non-stick cookware more accessible, encouraging healthier cooking practices across the population.
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Overall, promoting healthier cooking methods in Nigeria is an essential step toward addressing the country’s growing health challenges. With the combined efforts of nutrition education, public health campaigns, and government support for accessible cooking technologies, Nigerians can make informed choices that lead to better health outcomes. By shifting towards healthier cooking practices, Nigeria has the potential to reduce the burden of diet-related diseases, enhance the quality of life for its citizens, and pave the way for a healthier, more sustainable future.