Let's eat right - Nutritionists

Accra, Jan 17, GNA - Nutrition experts have criticized the poor eating habits of Ghanaians, saying this has contributed to the low life expectancy and high rate of disease burden currently facing the country.

According to Mrs Hannah Adjei, Assistant Chief Nutritional Officer of the Ghana Health Service (GHS), the poor dietary practices of Ghanaians has increased the rate of obesity, heart diseases, diabetes and malnutrition in children and called for a radical change in behaviour and practices. Mrs Adjei was speaking on the topic; "Nutrition in Regenerative Health: Eating for Good Health" on Thursday at the monthly health talk programme organized in Accra by the Ghana Health Service. She urged Ghanaians to adopt good eating habits that would enhance their health in order to avoid diseases associated with such behaviours.

She explained that eating of more fruits and vegetables was a healthier choice one could make rather than eating fatty, sugary and animal products.

Mrs Adjei advocated for beneficial food such as brown rice, leaves and legumes and to drink at least eight glasses of water daily. "When eating, take small bites at a time, chew your food thoroughly and eat slowly. Do not overeat, do not drink water whilst eating, avoid heavy food at night and stay for three hours before sleeping", Mrs Adjei advised.

Mrs Edith Simons of the African Hebrew Development Agency (AHDA) advised pregnant women to eat well, sleep well, rest well and exercise well to ensure the safe delivery of their babies as well as good health for the mothers.