HEALTH

5 Harmful Foods Popular in Nigeria

Nigerians are well renowned over the world for their incredible types of dishes and mouthwatering delicacies, however there are some foods that might cause harm to the body if not consumed in moderation and with caution.

In this article, we explore five silent-killer foods Nigerians love


However, amid the array of delicious dishes, there are some foods that, despite their popularity, pose significant health risks.


Here are the 5 Silent Enemies at your table

1. Suya (Carcinogenic)

Suya is a popular Nigerian snack that the majority of people enjoy because of its flaming, skewered nature. However, this tempting delicacy comes with some hidden hazards that many people are unaware of. Suya meat contains carcinogenic chemicals known as heterocyclic amines (HCAs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) as a result of its preparation methods and exposure to high temperatures. These substances are known to raise the risk of some malignancies. Thus, regular ingestion of it, especially when burned, can be detrimental to both adults and children, making it an enemy at the table.

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2. Shawarma (Due to Hot Dogs)

Sharwama is a well-known Middle Eastern wrap filled with spicy meat, veggies, and sause. The most common fillings are hot dogs and other processed meats, which include a certain amount of nitrate and nitrite. These preservatives are converted into nitrosamines, which can be toxic to the human body and potentially cause cancer. Thus, processed meat has been connected to a variety of health difficulties, including diabetes and heart disease, thus regular consumption can offer major health risks.

3. Nkwobi (Excess Potassium)

Nkwobi, a popular traditional food consumed by the majority of Nigerians, particularly in the south-east region, is a delicacy prepared from cow feet or goat head cooked with spicy palm oil sauce. However, its high potassium level can be harmful to human health. Individuals with kidney problems or those at risk of hyperkalemia (high potassium levels) should avoid ingesting Nkwobi, as excessive potassium levels can cause irregular heartbeat and possibly heart failure. While it is a satisfying dish, persons with medical conditions need to be cautious of its ingestion.

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4. Kilishi

Kilishi, or dried spiced meat, is another traditional Nigerian dish. The drying process needs the addition of a substantial amount of salt, which can contribute to high blood pressure. Although it is a sweet and delightful snack, its high salt content poses a silent threat to health.

5. Deep-Fried Snacks

Deep-fried delicacies like puff-puffs, buns, akara (bean cakes), and plantain chips are quite popular in Nigeria. These treats, while delectable, are frequently fried in harmful oils including trans fats. Trans fats are known to raise bad cholesterol (LDL) levels while lowering good cholesterol (HDL), increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. Furthermore, the high calorie content of deep-fried foods can lead to obesity, which is a risk factor for a variety of chronic illnesses.

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