Foods in Nigeria slaps, no doubt; known for their rich, diverse, and flavorful cuisine. From smoky party jollof at “owambes” to a full nylon of suya on a Friday night, our taste buds are living their best life.
However, not every dish is friendly to the body. Some popular Nigerian foods, despite being tasty, can be harmful to the health when consumed excessively or prepared in unhealthy ways.
Now, let’s take a look at the 5 worst foods Nigerians love to eat. This is not because they are bad by nature, but because of how they are made and consumed.
1. Everything Fries
Let’s start with the OGs. Puff-puff is the life of the party. Chin chin? The snack that never disappoints. Akara? “Best in breakfast”.
We all look forward to the small chops that will be served at a party, but these crispy goodness are deep-fried in oil, often reused multiple times by vendors, which increases the presence of trans fats and other harmful compounds. Regular consumption contributes to obesity, heart disease, and high cholesterol.
Nobody’s saying you should dump puff-puff, but don’t make it a regular. The best way to go is to save it for weekends or special occasions; like when Nigeria actually wins a match. LOL
You can as well try air-frying or baking versions of these treats, or reduce portion sizes.
2. Instant Noodles
We all love it. They are cheap, quick, and filling, making them a favorite, especially among students and busy workers.
Some of us even prepare it like it’s fine dining; with egg, sardine, pepper, veggies and onions, with a tall glass of cocktail.
However, that little seasoning pack is a salt mine in a sachet, loaded with sodium, preservatives, and MSG, which is not great for the heart and kidneys.
The way to go about it is by using half the seasoning, adding vegetables and proteins to balance the meal, or try making it with your own spices. Your taste buds will probably complain, but your body will thank you.
ALSO READ: How Jollof Became The National Food of Nigerians
3. Agege Bread
You’re probably disappointed that this is even on the list. Agege bread is fluffy, it’s sweet, and it goes with literally everything, but it has zero nutritional value.
When eaten daily with sugary spreads or fried eggs, it spikes blood sugar quickly, which can lead to type 2 diabetes.
You would be doing yourself a great deed by choosing whole grain or wheat bread when possible, or simply reduce your Agege bread intake.
4. Shawarma
Juicy meat, spicy sauce, and of course, double sausage with extra mayo; the ultimate flex for date night or after-hours cravings.
Enjoyment no dey kill, but the truth is this combo is a heart attack wrapped in foil. It is processed meat, salty sauces, oily sausage, and sugar-loaded ketchup.
Next time, ask for less cream, skip the extra sausage, or make your own version at home, with fresh veggies.
5. Suya
This is the real MVP of roadside dining. Coming back from work? You stop to buy some. Want to take garri? You rush out to get some. Weekend? You buy some for weekend chills.
These meats come with vibes and can be had with chilled drinks, but they also come with cholesterol, saturated fats, and questionable hygiene depending on where you buy them. It increases the risk of heart disease and high blood pressure.
Let’s be real, nobody is quitting suya, but treat it like a party snack, not your everyday protein.
Nigerian food is amazing, we’re not saying you should cancel these foods. But just eat smart, moderation is key.
Your taste buds might love it now, but your body will complain later if you overdo it. So next time you’re about to say “Add sausage and extra puff-puff,” ask yourself: “Can my arteries handle this?”
For more healthy tips, on what to consume and what not to, join the Health And Wellbeing Community on Fusion.
