Optimizing Dietary Quality in Nigeria to Combat NCDs

Importance of Diet Quality in Preventing Non-Communicable Diseases

In recent decades, the global burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) has escalated, with dietary quality recognized as a vital modifiable risk factor contributing to these health issues. In Nigeria, the rise in NCDs such as obesity, diabetes, and hypertension correlates closely with the transformation of dietary habits influenced by urbanization, globalization, and socioeconomic factors (Bigman et al., 2022). The World Health Organization emphasizes that poor diet quality significantly elevates the risk of developing these chronic conditions, which can lead to severe health complications and increased mortality rates (Bigman et al., 2022).

A well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats is crucial in mitigating risks associated with NCDs. Research indicates that higher dietary diversity, reflected in scores like the Global Diet Quality Score (GDQS), can help lower the incidence of these diseases by promoting nutrient adequacy and overall health (Akarolo-Anthony et al., 2013). In Nigeria, dietary patterns are diverse and greatly influenced by cultural practices, seasonal food availability, and economic status, necessitating targeted interventions to improve dietary quality among the population.

Current Dietary Patterns and Trends in Nigeria

Nigeria’s dietary landscape is characterized by a mix of traditional and modern foods, with staples such as cassava, yams, and rice forming the basis of many diets. The dietary habits of Nigerians have been shifting towards more processed and fast foods, primarily due to urbanization and increased availability of convenience foods (Ahungwa et al., 2022). A significant proportion of the Nigerian population now consumes high amounts of refined grains, sugary beverages, and deep-fried foods, leading to concerns about nutrient deficiencies and increased risk of NCDs (Bigman et al., 2022).

Recent studies reveal that while many Nigerians maintain a diet rich in carbohydrates and fats, the intake of essential nutrients such as vitamins and minerals remains alarmingly low. For instance, cruciferous vegetables, which are vital for preventing various diseases due to their rich nutrient profile, are under-consumed by up to 95% of the population (Bigman et al., 2022). Furthermore, a notable gender difference exists, where men tend to consume more unhealthy foods compared to women, leading to disparities in health outcomes (Bigman et al., 2022).

Seasonal Variations in Food Consumption Habits

In Nigeria, dietary patterns are influenced significantly by seasonal variations, which affect food availability and consumption. The country experiences distinct wet and dry seasons, impacting the types of food that are accessible and affordable (Akarolo-Anthony et al., 2013). During the rainy season, there is a higher availability of fresh produce, including fruits and vegetables, while the dry season often sees a reliance on preserved and stored foods.

Research utilizing the GDQS method indicates that dietary diversity tends to be higher in the rainy season due to the abundance of fresh produce, which is crucial for health (Bigman et al., 2022). However, despite the overall healthiness of foods consumed, a consistent pattern of low intake of certain essential food groups, such as cruciferous vegetables, persists throughout the year. This seasonal fluctuation emphasizes the need for strategic planning in food production and consumption to ensure nutrient-rich foods are accessible year-round.

Factors Influencing Healthy Food Intake Among Nigerian Adults

Numerous factors influence the dietary habits of Nigerian adults, including socioeconomic status, cultural norms, education, and access to food. Economic constraints often lead to a preference for cheap, calorie-dense foods over nutritious options, exacerbating the risk of NCDs (Bigman et al., 2022). Education also plays a significant role; individuals with higher educational attainment are more likely to make healthier food choices and adhere to dietary recommendations (Akarolo-Anthony et al., 2013).

Moreover, cultural practices significantly shape food preferences and consumption patterns. Traditional diets are often rich in local staples, but as western influences permeate, there is a shift towards processed foods, which are typically less nutritious (Bigman et al., 2022). The consumption of home-cooked meals is linked to higher dietary quality, yet many adults, particularly men, opt for eating out, leading to higher intakes of unhealthy foods (Bigman et al., 2022).

Strategies for Improving Dietary Quality and Nutritional Education

To combat the rising prevalence of NCDs linked to poor dietary quality in Nigeria, several strategies can be employed:

1. Nutritional Education Campaigns: Public health campaigns aimed at raising awareness about the importance of a balanced diet and the risks associated with poor dietary choices can significantly impact community health. Educational programs should focus on the benefits of consuming a variety of foods, particularly fruits and vegetables, while discouraging processed foods high in sugar and fat.

2. Promotion of Home-Cooked Meals: Encouraging home cooking can lead to healthier eating habits, as individuals are more likely to use fresh ingredients and control portion sizes. Community cooking classes and resources can empower individuals to prepare nutritious meals at home.

3. Policy Interventions: Government policies should support local agriculture and promote the availability of fresh produce, especially during off-seasons. Implementing subsidies for fruits and vegetables can make these healthier options more affordable for low-income families.

4. Integration of Traditional Foods: Leveraging traditional dietary patterns can enhance nutritional intake. Promoting the consumption of indigenous foods, such as legumes and whole grains, can provide a pathway to improved dietary quality while preserving cultural heritage.

5. Monitoring and Evaluation: Continuous assessment of dietary quality and its associated health outcomes is essential. Utilizing tools like the GDQS can help identify trends and inform interventions in dietary habits over time.

Table 1: Factors Influencing Dietary Quality in Nigeria

FAQ

What is the Global Diet Quality Score (GDQS)?
The GDQS is a metric used to assess the healthiness of dietary intake based on various food groups, helping to identify individuals at risk of poor diet quality.

How does seasonal variation affect dietary patterns in Nigeria?
Seasonal changes impact food availability, influencing the consumption of fresh produce in the rainy season and increasing reliance on preserved foods in the dry season.

What are some effective strategies to improve dietary quality?
Strategies include nutritional education campaigns, promoting home-cooked meals, policy interventions to increase access to fresh produce, and integrating traditional foods into diets.

Why is dietary quality important in preventing NCDs?
A healthy diet can significantly reduce the risk of developing NCDs by providing essential nutrients and maintaining overall health.

What factors influence food choices among Nigerian adults?
Factors include socioeconomic status, education level, cultural norms, and seasonal availability of food.

References

1. Akarolo-Anthony, S. N., Odubore, F., Yilme, S., Aragbada, O., Odonye, G., Hu, F., Willett, W., & Spiegelman, D. (2013). Pattern of dietary carbohydrate intake among urbanized adult Nigerians. Int J Food Sci Nutr, 64(3), 292-299

2. Bigman, G., Otieno, L., Adebamowo, S. N., & Adebamowo, C. A. (2022). Dietary intake and cancer in Sub-Saharan Africa: a critical review of epidemiological studies. Nutr Cancer, 74(8), 2803-2814

3. Ahungwa, G. T., Gama, E. N., Teran, D. A., & Muhammad, M. (2022). Does the westernisation of diet affect food security in Nigeria? evidence from fast food and street food consumption in the Dutse metropolis Jigawa State. Ife J Agric, 34(3), 35-48. https://doi.org/10.17352/ijvsr.000115

4. Adebamowo, S. N., & Adebamowo, C. A. (2024). Validity and reproducibility of a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire and food picture book in Nigeria. Curr Dev Nutr, 8(4), 102135. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cdnut.2024.102135

5. Bromage, S., Zhang, Y., & Holmes, M. D. (2021). The global diet quality score is inversely associated with nutrient inadequacy, low mid-upper arm circumference, and anemia in rural adults in ten Sub-Saharan African countries. J Nutr, 151(12 Suppl 2), 119S-129S. https://doi.org/10.1093/jn/nxab161

6. Morgan, A. E., & Fanzo, J. (2020). Nutrition transition and climate risks in Nigeria: moving towards food systems policy coherence. Curr Environ Health Rep, 7(4), 392-403. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40572-020-00292-3

7. Liu, Z., Zhao, D., & Dai, S. (2024). Inverse association between the global diet quality score and new-onset hypertension in adults: a nationwide cohort study. J Nutr, 154(4), 1252-1261. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tjnut.2024.02.008

8. Damigou, E., Kouvari, M., & Chrysohoou, C. (2023). Diet quality and consumption of healthy and unhealthy foods measured via the global diet quality score in relation to cardiometabolic outcomes in apparently healthy adults from the Mediterranean region: the ATTICA epidemiological cohort study (2002–2022). Nutrients, 15(20), 4428. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15204428

9. Petrikova, I., Bhattacharjee, R., & Fraser, P. D. (2023). The ‘Nigerian Diet’ and its evolution: review of the existing literature and household survey data. Foods, 12(3), 443. https://doi.org/10.3390/foods12030443

10. Ayenew, H. Y., Biadigilign, S., Schickramm, L., & AbateKassa, G. (2018). Production diversification, dietary diversity and consumption seasonality: panel data evidence from Nigeria. BMC Public Health, 18(1), 1-9