There have been renewed calls for more functionally efficient staple foods in diets. How necessary is it in Nigeria?
“Functionally efficient food” means food/ingredients that offer health benefits beyond their nutritional value. This value includes foods/ingredients fortified with vitamins and minerals. It is crucial to consume a balanced diet of all nutrients like carbohydrates, protein, fat , minerals and vitamins.
It is better to consume more functionally efficient foods because they contain nutrients essential for heart health. The best cooking oils for the heart are those that have more “poly and monounsaturated fatty acids” than “unsaturated fatty acids” . What is your take on a policy to encourage the consumption of more functionally efficient staple food?
There are different types of oils Nigerians use for cooking. The most prominent are vegetable oil and palm oil. Oils, in general, are made up of fatty acids. Saturated fatty acids promote elevated blood cholesterol, “atherosclerosis and plaque formation” in our arteries, narrowing them and reducing blood supply to vital organs.
Our health agencies/regulators need to make mass education on nutrition and the effects of choosing the best cooking ingredients for their overall health. This enlightenment is best done via media outlets, influencers and opinion leaders in the health and wellness spaceWhen choosing cooking oil, it’s essential to look for the following: is it solid at room temperature? Oils that congeal at room temperature have a high amount of saturated fatty acids or trans-fat.
Apart from polyunsaturated fats, Olive oil is also high in monounsaturated fats, which reduce systemic inflammation. It also contains antioxidants, lowers cholesterol levels and may help reduce the risk of stroke, heart disease and some cancers.and consumer education?
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