Statista reports that “the snack food market in Nigeria is projected to grow by 9.18% (2024-2029) resulting in a market volume of US$3.46bn in 2029. Hmmm, it seems I just gave you a business idea.
An Igbo proverb says: “It is not immediately a tree is cut down that it withers, but it will surely wither”. The unhealthy choices we make today might seem harmless, but we will all reap what we sow in the end. So what are you sowing? Think about it.
Every Nigerian loves these roadside snacks, but do they know how unhealthy, and even deadly, they can be? Here are seven snacks Nigerians need to stay away from.
Suya
You already know your favourite Aboki spot! Well, read this: Suya, a popular spicy skewered meat, is made from red meat, which increases the risk of many health conditions.
Research shows that eating red meat like suya also increases the risk of dying from diabetes, Alzheimer’s, heart disease, stroke, and cancer. Additionally, eating beef, lamb, and pork makes you more vulnerable to infections and kidney, liver, and lung illnesses.
Shawarma
Wait before you demand Sharwarma on your next outing, think twice. Almost everyone loves shawarma, especially young girls. The marinated strips cut from a revolving cone of meat already have fat running through them and receive additional fat during the cooking process. The meat is extensively seasoned, raising the sodium content. The combination of chicken, sausages, and cream makes it a high-calorie meal, and the addition of cabbage doesn’t miraculously make shawarma healthy.
The worst thing about the Shawarma is that it is usually wrapped in Aluminum foil! Aluminium is a dangerous heavy metal that can cause many health challenges, imagine your food absorbing Aluminium in your presence as it is being heated.
Kpekere
Before you buy this one while travelling, read this first. Kpekere, made from fried plantain chips, is another popular snack. Like puff puff, kpekere is deep-fried, making it high in unhealthy fats. Additionally, the high salt content often found in kpekere can contribute to high blood pressure and other cardiovascular issues. Frequent consumption can also lead to weight gain due to its high-calorie content.
READ ALSO: 35 Nigerian Food Ideas for Diabetics (Exclusively Naija)
Bole
Thousands of Nigerians are guilty here, what can we do without Bole and beans Bole, made from roasted plantain, carries health risks due to its preparation method. There is evidence that eating roasted foods like boli can increase the risk of developing certain cancers, such as colon and pancreatic cancer.
The charred parts of boli include chemicals like acrylamide, which may increase cancer risk by altering DNA. Bole is often eaten with oily stew or sauce, which can cause hyperlipidemia (abnormally high levels of fat or cholesterol) and arteriosclerosis (hardening of the arteries due to the deposition of fats). Ok, this is quite clear.
Kilishi
Popular in northern Nigeria, this is the senior brother of Suya. Kilishi, a dried meat similar to beef jerky, has high sodium content, which can lead to kidney failure and high blood pressure. The environment where kilishi is prepared is also crucial.
Sometimes, the meat surface gets contaminated during slaughtering, dressing, and cutting. During cutting and drying, it can be contaminated with non-pathogenic bacteria that cause spoilage, such as Coliforms and Escherichia coli, and pathogenic microorganisms like Escherichia coli and Salmonella, leading to food poisoning.
White Bread
White bread can cause a blood sugar surge due to its high glycemic index. This is particularly harmful to diabetics, as a sudden change in blood sugar levels can be deadly.
Plus, its high-calorie content makes it a poor choice for anyone looking to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. Most white bread has no nutritional value, and worse yet they have a lot of Bromate and artificial sweeteners which are nothing but deadly,
Puff Puff
Puff puff, a deep-fried dough snack, is a favourite among Nigerians. However, its preparation involves frying in hot oil, which makes it high in trans fats.
Consuming foods high in trans fats can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. Puff puff also tends to be high in sugar, which can contribute to weight gain and other metabolic issues.
Parents beware, stop buying this for those innocent children.
READ ALSO: How to make Zobo without Sugar (Updated 2024)
Conclusion: Take Charge of Your Health with Dulu Herbal Tonic
It’s clear that the snacks many Nigerians love—such as shawarma, suya, boli, kilishi, puff puff, and kpekere—can pose significant health risks due to their high fat, sodium, and sugar content. These beloved treats, while delicious, can contribute to various health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and digestive problems. However, there is a way to combat the negative effects of these unhealthy foods and support your overall well-being.
Dulu Herbal Tonic is a powerful, all-natural beverage designed to promote total body health and well-being. Crafted with a blend of carefully selected natural ingredients, Dulu offers a myriad of benefits to support your active lifestyle:
- Combat Signs of Aging: Packed with antioxidants, Dulu helps fight free radicals, promoting cell rejuvenation and supporting a youthful appearance.
- Strengthen Your Defenses: Boost your immune system and stay healthy with Dulu’s natural immune-boosting ingredients.
- Enhanced Energy & Vitality: Experience a surge in natural energy levels, providing the stamina needed for your daily activities and exercise routines.
- Digestive Support: Improve your digestive health, ease discomfort, and enhance nutrient absorption with Dulu’s natural ingredients.
- Balanced Blood Sugar: Support healthy blood sugar regulation and potentially aid in insulin production, helping you manage energy levels and reduce sugar cravings.
- Reduced Nerve Pain: Protect against nerve damage and reduce symptoms of neuropathy, offering relief and promoting nerve health.
- Cognitive Boost: Enhance cognitive function, mental clarity, and memory, keeping your mind sharp and focused.
- Heart Health: Contribute to overall cardiovascular health and well-being with Dulu’s heart-friendly ingredients.
Made with natural ingredients, Dulu offers a safe and effective way to support your health goals. Each ingredient is chosen for its potent health benefits, ensuring you receive the best nature has to offer. Ditch the pills and embrace the convenience of Dulu’s liquid form. Simply enjoy the unique, slightly bitter taste, and experience the Dulu difference as part of your daily wellness routine.
Don’t let unhealthy snacks take a toll on your health. Take charge of your well-being and combat the effects of these foods with Dulu Herbal Tonic. Visit Ozzie Health Consult today to get a bottle of Dulu and embark on a journey towards a healthier, more vibrant life.
Let me say this again, An Igbo proverb says: “It is not immediately a tree is cut down that it withers, but it will surely wither”. The unhealthy choices we make today might seem harmless, but we will all reap what we sow in the end. So what are you sowing? Think deeper about it.
