Author: Tunde Giwa
When you step into a Nigerian kitchen, you’re likely to see vibrant spices, freshly pounded yam, sizzling oil in the pan, and the aroma of jollof rice or egusi soup in the air. But beneath this familiar scene, health experts are warning about a hidden danger lurking in almost every household — an everyday kitchen item that could be damaging your health without you knowing. This item is refined cooking oil — particularly those cheap, unbranded varieties flooding Nigerian markets. According to multiple Nigerian doctors and nutrition experts, many popular cooking oils sold in open markets and even supermarkets are…
Breakfast is often called the most important meal of the day, but in Nigeria, what we choose to eat in the morning might be silently damaging our health. From bustling Lagos streets to small village corners, one breakfast reigns supreme: white bread and sweet tea, often paired with fried eggs or akara. It’s affordable, filling, and quick — perfect for busy mornings. But here’s the problem: nutritionists say this breakfast combo may be a slow health time bomb if eaten too frequently. Why This Breakfast Is So Popular in Nigeria The love for bread and tea is deeply rooted in…
Living with diabetes doesn’t mean you must give up sweet, juicy fruits. In fact, certain local Nigerian fruits can help control blood sugar naturally, provide essential vitamins, and keep cravings satisfied. The key is choosing fruits with a low glycemic index and high fiber content — these prevent sugar spikes while nourishing your body. Below are 7 diabetic-friendly Nigerian fruits you should know about. 1. Garden Egg Low in sugar and high in fiber, garden eggs help regulate glucose levels and improve digestion. They’re also rich in antioxidants that fight inflammation. 2. Guava Packed with vitamin C and fiber, guava…
The Nigerian rainy season is beautiful — cooling the air, watering the soil, and bringing lush greenery. But it also comes with an increase in cold, flu, malaria, and other infections. With unpredictable weather, weakened immunity is a common problem, and that’s why starting your day with a powerful immunity-boosting morning drink can make all the difference. One of the simplest yet most effective recipes involves ginger, turmeric, lemon, and honey — ingredients readily available in most Nigerian markets. This drink is packed with antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, and vitamins that help strengthen your immune system and fight off seasonal illnesses.…
In Nigeria, tasty street snacks like shawarma, suya, and deep-fried treats are a staple. But now, medical experts are warning that these beloved foods may be doing more harm than good. From cancer-linked compounds in grilled meats to fatty, liver-damaging fried snacks, doctors say it’s time to rethink our go-to indulgences. This post breaks down the science behind the risks and offers healthier options for everyday snacking. 1. Shawarma—Hidden Health Risks Behind the Wrap Everyone loves shawarma—the juicy meat, refreshing veggies, tasty sauces—but doctors warn it’s packed with hidden dangers. What Makes Shawarma Unhealthy? Often contains processed meats like hotdogs,…
We’ve all been there — you just finished a delicious plate of jollof rice with chicken, maybe even threw in some puff-puff and a chilled bottle of malt, but now your stomach feels tight, uncomfortable, and heavy. This is stomach bloating, and it’s more common than you think among Nigerians due to our love for hearty meals. Bloating after heavy meals happens when gas builds up in your digestive system or when your stomach struggles to digest large portions of food quickly. The good news is, you don’t have to suffer for long. There are simple, fast, and natural remedies…
High blood pressure (hypertension) is one of the most common health issues affecting Nigerians today — and it’s often called the silent killer. But the good news? You can control and even lower it naturally by making smart choices in the kitchen.From the yam pounded in your mortar to the vegetables in your stew, certain Nigerian staples are packed with nutrients proven to help regulate blood pressure.Here are 7 Nigerian foods that can keep your heart happy — and they’re delicious too. 1. Ugwu (Fluted Pumpkin Leaves) Ugwu isn’t just for soups like Egusi or Edikang Ikong. This leafy green…
Breakfast is called the most important meal of the day for a reason — it jumpstarts your metabolism, fuels your brain, and sets the tone for healthy eating. In Nigeria, many popular breakfasts are delicious but calorie-dense. The good news? You can still enjoy your favorite local dishes while losing weight — you just need to tweak the recipes. This guide explores 10 healthy Nigerian breakfast ideas for weight loss, all easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and perfect for busy mornings. 1. Oats with Banana & Peanut Butter Oats are high in fiber, keeping you full for longer and preventing overeating.…