Registered dietitian Emmanuella Yayra Saku identifies processed foods, sugary drinks, and large portions as major causes of dietary obesity in Ghana.
The high prevalence of these foods directly contributes to surging obesity rates.
A recent Ghana Health Demographic Survey found that about 50% of women surveyed are either obese or overweight. Ms. Saku warns that the unchecked consumption of obesity-causing foods may lead to worse outcomes in the future.
Consuming processed foods with high calories, combined with physical inactivity, can lead to weight gain. Additionally, drinking too many sugary drinks can put both children and adults at risk of becoming obese.
Eating large portion sizes of meals can also lead to excessive calorie intake and potential weight gain. Alcoholic drinks can also lead to weight gain due to the calories they contain.
Ms. Saku urges Ghanaians to increase their daily exercise activities to burn more calories and to watch their diets to avoid excessive carbohydrate intake.
It’s essential to reduce the consumption of processed foods and sugary drinks and to be mindful of portion sizes and alcoholic beverage intake.
