Health
Nutrients Can Reduce Risk Of Non-communicable Diseases — Dietitians
By Fatima Mohammed-Lawal
Mr Bashir Onifade, the Chairman of Institute for Dietetics, Kwara State Chapter, says nutrients play a crucial role in strengthening the immune system, which helps the body prevent, fight, and recover from communicable diseases.
Onifade stated this on Thursday in Ilorin while speaking on the sidelines of the commemoration of the World Registered Dietitians, Nutritionist Day.
He explained that the theme of the day is entitled: “Discover the Power of Nutrition”, which lays emphasis on the importance and essential of nutrients for restoring immune function, and reducing disease severity.
According to him, nutritious foods have the ability to reverse deficiencies that make individuals more susceptible to infections.
Onifade, who is also the Head of Department, Nutrition and Dietetics of the Kwara State University Teaching Hospital (KWASUTH), said that the day is set aside to appreciate the roles of registered dietitians and nutritionists globally in preventing diseases and promoting optimal health.
“Dieticians and nutritionists educate people on how to make healthy choices through better nutrition.
“Diet is important for good health, when you consume wrong foods like junk foods, then you are prone to communicable diseases,” he warned.
According to him, balanced diet provides numerous benefits, including boosting energy levels and supports overall health, strengthens immune system and reduces risk of chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers.
Furthermore, the expert on nutrition disclosed that the number of malnourished children in Kwara has reduced due to the efforts of the state government in administering micronutrients powder as complementary meal to the children.
He enjoined Nigerians to seek help from professionals who will guide them on how to take the right food for good health.
Also speaking, Dr Bankole Olugbenga, the State Nutrition Officer, emphasised on the importance of nutrients to the body.
He explained that food is not just fuel for the body, but that good nutrients prevent diseases and non-communicable diseases.
Olugbenga called for more synergy and cooperation of members of the association in order to achieve a common goal.
Highlights of the programme included a courtesy visit to the Kwara State Primary Healthcare Development Agency and donation of foods and commodities to the Waafah Children’s Home. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edit by Ekemini Ladejobi
