Maintaining a healthy diet is essential for preventing and managing hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, and reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

The Head of the Department of Nutrition, Mrs Mercy Akinterinwa, stated this while speaking on the UNIMEDTH Diet segment of Orange 94.5 FM’s News and Current Affairs Programme, The Roundtable.

Akinterinwa explained that proper nutrition and healthy lifestyle choices play important roles in maintaining good health and preventing complications associated with hypertension and other ailments.

She described hypertension as a medical condition characterised by persistently elevated blood pressure, warning that uncontrolled high blood pressure could lead to serious health complications.

The nutrition expert advised members of the public to adopt healthy eating habits, reduce excessive salt consumption and avoid foods that could increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

She also encouraged regular physical activity, including walking and dancing, while urging individuals to monitor their blood pressure and blood sugar levels regularly to keep track of their health status.

Akinterinwa noted that maintaining a balanced diet does not have to be expensive, encouraging people to consume affordable, locally available foods such as beans, eggs, fruits and vegetables.

She cautioned against excessive consumption of fried foods, pastries, sugary foods and meals containing too much salt, stressing the need for healthier food choices to protect overall well-being.

The nutritionist emphasised that combining a balanced diet with regular exercise and routine health checks would help prevent and manage hypertension and promote a healthier lifestyle.