Unhealthy Snacks Nigerians Love – 5 Unhealthy Snacks Nigerians Consume On Daily Basis.
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In Nigeria, selling food and snacks by the roadside is quite profitable. This is due to the fact that some Nigerians have developed a habit of relying on these snacks, despite the potential negative impacts on their health.
Several unhealthy factors are often overlooked, from how the food is prepared to the amount of spices added. Nonetheless, it is important for Nigerians to be aware of certain popular snacks that should be avoided for their own well-being.
1. Suya
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Red meat is a good source of essential nutrients such as protein, vitamin B12, and zinc. The protein present in beef is complete, which means that it contains all the amino acids that are necessary for the human body to function properly. Proteins are important for muscle and tissue growth as well as their maintenance.
However, red meat is high in saturated fat. Although studies have shown that saturated fat does not directly increase the risk of heart disease, it can raise levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol, which is a risk factor for heart disease.
Certain types of red meat have been linked by scientists to chronic illnesses such as heart disease and cancer. Eating beef, lamb, and pork can increase the likelihood of infections and illnesses affecting the kidneys, liver, and lungs.
2. Kilishi
The excessive amount of salt present in dried meat, which is comparable to beef jerky, can result in hypertension and kidney damage. Additionally, it is crucial to consider the conditions under which Kilishi, a type of dried meat, is prepared. The meat’s surface may become tainted during slaughter, dressing, and cutting.
Furthermore, during the cutting and drying process, it may become infected with non-harmful bacteria that cause spoilage, such as Coliforms and Escherichia coli, as well as harmful pathogens like Escherichia coli and Salmonella, leading to food poisoning.
3. Shawarma
The fatty meats used in shawarma are often high in saturated fats, which can lead to heart problems if consumed excessively. Therefore, it is essential to consume shawarma in moderation.
4. White bread
Consuming white bread can lead to a sudden increase in blood sugar levels due to its high glycemic index. The high-calorie content of white bread can be particularly detrimental to health. Overeating and weight gain are potential risks associated with the glycemic index of white bread, which causes blood sugar levels to spike shortly after eating.
Furthermore, eating white bread can heighten the chances of developing type 2 diabetes, kidney stones, and heart disease. Therefore, avoiding white bread can be beneficial for those looking to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.
5. Boli
Research suggests that consuming roasted foods such as boli can elevate the possibility of developing certain types of cancers such as colon and pancreatic cancer. The burnt or darkened areas of boli contain substances such as acrylamide that can modify DNA and potentially increase the risk of cancer.
Additionally, boli is frequently consumed together with oily stew or sauce, which may cause hyperlipidemia and arteriosclerosis due to the accumulation of fats in the arteries.
