We are what we eat, and we must see it as such. Nigerians are surrounded by so many unhealthy food options that it takes effort to find the good ones. However, why don’t we do the heavy lifting for you instead? Here, we highlight all the rich and healthy meals you should add to your diet plan this year for a healthier you. Stick around.
Quality Protein
Carbs make up the bulk of the average Nigerian diet. Carbs are crucial considering our labor-intensive way of life. You should incorporate protein into your diet. Protein is important for bodybuilding, immune function, and muscle repair. Examples of high-quality proteins you can incorporate into your meals are fish, peanuts, meat, and chicken.
Fibre-rich Food
A fiber-rich diet has a lot of benefits regarding healthy living. It is so bemusing how underrated this class of food is. Some of the many benefits of high-fiber meals are better digestive health and reduced incidence of colon cancer. And that’s only scratching the surface. You need fiber-rich meals for a longer and more productive lifestyle. Examples are oats, beans, wheat, and the well-known ponmo (cow skin).
Healthy Fat
The misconception that fat is bad is misplaced and misleading. Fat is crucial and necessary for a healthy lifestyle and is often recommended by health professionals. Fats help in proper brain function, hormone production, and, improved focus on demanding tasks.
Ignoring fat is a dire mistake. Instead, you should know how to tell the difference between healthy and unhealthy fat. For instance, oil that’s high in cholesterol is dangerous for you. Examples of healthy fats include avocado, peanuts, olive oil, and coconut oil. Integrate them into your diet however you like.
Leafy Greens and Fruits
You knew this was coming. The last on our list is leafy green fruits. Let’s start with a simple question: how often do you take fruits? Chances are it is not high unless you have made a conscious effort to do so. Also, fruit juice doesn’t count.
You need to take a considerable amount of fruits and greens regularly for the best results. Fortunately, greens make up a great deal of our diets as Nigerians. From okra to the assorted vegetable soups, we get enough of the greens we need. But you also need to add fruits. They contain vitamins and minerals our body needs to function. Deficiency can lead to dire consequences.
Final Thoughts
Food is important as we can’t do without it. However, it is not enough that we eat but that we eat right. Filling doesn’t equate to being healthy. You need to make a conscious effort to pick out the best meal that’s there. When you do, you will become healthier, especially when you add staying hydrated and regular exercise.
Disclaimer: The opinions, views, and information expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy, position, or opinions of iNaijanow. The company assumes no liability for errors, omissions, or damages from using this information.
