ARE FRUITS THAT IMPORTANT? WHY THEN DO NIGERIANS NOT EAT THEM THAT MUCH?

Eating fruits every day has various health benefits for the body. Fruits are rich in vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants that are essential for maintaining optimal health, and even curing diseases.

Here are some of the benefits of eating fruits every day:

1. Improved digestion: Fruits are rich in fiber, which can help to regulate digestion and prevent constipation. Intake of fruits is usually the first line of intervention for anyone who is suffering from constipation.

2. Enhanced immune function: Fruits are a good source of vitamins and minerals that help to support immune function. This way, the rate at which you get infections will reduce considerably.

3. Improved skin health: Fruits are rich in vitamin C, which is important for collagen production. Collagen is a protein that helps to keep the skin looking young and healthy. Eating fruits every day can help to improve skin health and reduce the signs of aging.

4. Weight management: Fruits are low in calories and high in fiber, which can help to promote weight loss and weight management. Eating fruits every day can help to reduce calorie intake and increase feelings of fullness, which can lead to weight loss over time.

5. Improved heart health: Fruits are rich in potassium, which helps to regulate blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease. Eating fruits every day can help to improve heart health and reduce the risk of heart disease.

6. Reduced risk of cancer: Fruits are rich in antioxidants, which help to protect the body from free radical damage that can lead to cancer. Eating fruits every day can help to reduce the risk of cancer and improve overall health.

7. Improved mental health: Fruits are rich in vitamins and minerals that are important for brain health. Eating fruits every day can help to improve mood, reduce stress levels, and enhance cognitive function.

WHY DON’T NIGERIANS TAKE FRUITS CONSUMPTION SERIOUSLY, DESPITE THE NUMEROUS BENEFITS?

There are several reasons why Nigerians do not eat fruits as much as they should. One of the major reasons is the cost of fruits, especially those that are not produced locally. Imported fruits are often expensive, and not affordable for many Nigerians. Also, many Nigerians do not have easy access to fresh fruits due to poor distribution channels and inadequate means of storage, which makes the fruits perishable and scarce.

Another factor that contributes to the low consumption of fruits in Nigeria is a lack of awareness of the health benefits of fruits. Many Nigerians are not aware that fruits are an important part of a healthy diet and can help prevent chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.

Cultural factors also play a role in the low consumption of fruits in Nigeria. In some cultures, fruits are seen as a luxury and are only consumed during special occasions, while in others, fruits are believed to be too sweet for the body and are therefore avoided.

In recent years, there has been an increase in public awareness of the health benefits of fruits, and efforts are being made by the government and non-governmental organizations to promote the consumption of fruits. Some of these efforts include the establishment of fruit markets and the distribution of fruits in schools, hospitals, and other public places. It is hoped that with these efforts, more Nigerians will be able to enjoy the health benefits of fruits.