10 Nigerian Foods To AVOID After Age 50 For Better Health And Longevity

As you approach 50 and beyond, your body undergoes numerous changes. These changes can affect how your body processes certain foods, and it becomes even more crucial to make wise dietary choices. The foods you consume can either help maintain your vitality or increase the risk of chronic diseases. To stay healthy, here are 10 popular Nigerian foods you should consider reducing or eliminating from your diet once you hit 50.

1. Fried Yam (Dodo)
   Fried yam, a common Nigerian dish, is often fried in unhealthy oils and is high in fats and calories. As you age, the body’s ability to process these fats diminishes, which could contribute to weight gain and heart disease.

Healthier alternative: Opt for boiled yam or yam porridge with less oil and a variety of vegetables.

2. Jollof Rice
   Jollof rice is a favorite for many Nigerians, but when consumed in large quantities, it can be high in sugar, fat, and sodium, especially with the added meats and fried plantains. Excessive intake can lead to obesity, hypertension, and diabetes.

Healthier alternative: You can prepare a healthier version by reducing the oil used and opting for brown rice or adding more vegetables.

3. Pounded Yam
   Pounded yam is a beloved dish in Nigeria, but it’s made from refined yam flour, which is rich in carbohydrates and can spike blood sugar levels. High blood sugar is a risk factor for diabetes, especially for those over 50.

Healthier alternative: Swap pounded yam for amala (made from yam flour, but with a lower glycemic index) or try a small portion with more vegetables and protein.

4. Eba (Garri)
   Garri, made from cassava, is high in simple carbohydrates and can cause blood sugar spikes. For individuals over 50, consuming foods with high glycemic indexes like eba can increase the risk of diabetes and heart disease.

Healthier alternative: Consider reducing eba and try swapping with vegetables or whole grains like brown rice or quinoa.

5. Moi Moi (Steamed Bean Pudding)
   Moi Moi is a nutritious food, but the high oil content in some recipes can be problematic, especially if you have a sedentary lifestyle. The body’s metabolism slows down as we age, making it more challenging to burn off excess fats.

Healthier alternative: Reduce the oil content in Moi Moi and include more plant-based ingredients like vegetables.

6. Suya (Grilled Meat Skewers)
   Suya, a popular Nigerian snack, is high in sodium and saturated fats, which can contribute to hypertension and heart disease if consumed in excess.

Healthier alternative: Limit suya consumption and opt for grilled fish or lean chicken without the heavy seasoning.

7. Akara (Bean Cake)
   While akara is made from beans, a healthy source of protein, the deep-frying process adds unhealthy fats. Consuming fried foods regularly can raise bad cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease.

Healthier alternative: Try baked akara or prepare a lighter version using less oil.

8. Pepper Soup with Goat Meat
   Nigerian pepper soup, particularly with goat meat, is delicious but often high in saturated fat and sodium. This can be taxing on your kidneys and heart as you age.

Healthier alternative: Opt for fish pepper soup with a variety of vegetables and minimal salt to keep it heart-healthy.

9. Plantains (Dodo)
   Fried plantains, commonly known as dodo, are high in calories and fats due to the frying process. Overconsumption can lead to weight gain, which can further exacerbate health problems like arthritis and heart disease.

Healthier alternative: Enjoy plantains in moderation by baking them or boiling them instead of frying.

10. Goat Meat Stew
    Goat meat stew is a rich and flavorful Nigerian dish but can be high in fat and cholesterol. For those over 50, this can contribute to heart disease and increase blood pressure.

Healthier alternative: Choose lean cuts of meat like chicken or turkey, and incorporate more vegetables into the stew for added nutrients.

Remember, it’s not about completely eliminating the foods you love but making healthier, more mindful choices. Always consult with your doctor or nutritionist for personalized dietary advice. Your health and longevity depend on it!