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Healthy Eating on a Budget – Affordable Nutrition Options

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A Nigerian girl healthy and happy as she prioritises healthy eating. She holds a fruit cup in her hands and has a beautiful smile.
Affordable Healthy Eating in Naija: Yes, It’s Possible!

Eating healthy in this day is no longer optional but mandatory especially if you want to enjoy a better quality of life. The good news? Eating healthy shouldn’t equate to breaking the bank especially in Nigeria that is packed full with food options that are both healthy and very affordable.

So instead of worrying about high cost of nutritious eating, take a tip or two from this article, and yes, whether you are a student, parent, employee or entrepreneur, this is a practical guide on how to eat well with little money and eat healthy without the fear of going broke!

  1. Go Local – Natural + Affordable = Healthy Meals on a Budget
Ogi also known as pap is a Nigerian meal that is not just tasty but also very nutritious

Ogi also known as Pap is not only nutritious but an affordable Nigerian meal

Local foods are mostly fresher, cheaper and healthier especially when you buy them from local markets around you.

  • Brown rice and ofada rice give you a healthy amount of fiber.
  • Beans and lentils are easily accessible and cheaper options of protein.
  • Yam and sweet potatoes are rich in complex carbohydrates.
  • Pap, popularly known as Ogi can be made from corn or millet and is a popularly meal for breakfast while providing carbohydrates, B-Vitamins, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Calcium amongst other nutrients.

If eating healthy and affordable is something you want to try, buying local foods especially in season will save you a lot more that imported options and will also provide to your nutritional needs.

  1. Vegetables in Season = Save more + Healthier Alternative
Okra is one Nigerian vegetable that is high in nutrients and also affordable

Okra is one Nigerian vegetable that is high in nutrients and also affordable

One of the surest ways to save more while eating earlier is prioritizing getting vegetables in bulk. Vegetables like ugu, waterleaf, okro, spinach, scent leaf amongst many others are packed with essential vitamins and minerals and bulk buying especially in local markets come with more affordable offers.

Then you can go ahead to preserve them by drying, refrigerating or turning them in soups so they last longer.

 

  1. Protein – What if They Don’t Have to be Expensive?
Eggs - nutritious, affordable, and high in proteins and other nutrients the body needs.

Eggs – nutritious, affordable, and high in proteins and other nutrients the body needs.

When you think protein, you usually think beef, turkey, chicken or goat meat but what if getting a good dose of protein wasn’t so expensive.

Some options that also provide protein while being affordable are eggs, moi-moi, akara, groundnuts, peanut butter, soya beans, local fish like Titus, catfish or mackerel and don’t forget dried fish and crayfish. The last two options don’t only provide you a good amount of protein but add taste and flavor to your soups or stew.

  1. Fruits on a Budget.
A fruit basket containing a variety of nutritious fruits that are also affordable.

Fruits are a most for healthy living but you don’t have to break the bank to get them!

You don’t need the exotic berries and fruits like strawberries, blueberries, Kiwis, Cherries and the like to stay healthy.

If you are a Nigerian, here are cheaper options to explore and their nutritional components:

  • Bananas – Carbohydrate, Potassium, Vitamin B6, Fiber and Vitamin C
  • Oranges – Vitamin C, Folate, Potassium, Fiber, Natural sugars and Antioxidants.
  • Pineapples – Vitamin C, Manganese, Bromelain, Fiber and Natural sugars.
  • Pawpaw – Vitamin C and A, Folate, Papain enzyme, Fiber and water content.
  • Watermelons – 90% Water, Vitamin C and A, Lycopene, Potassium and Low calories.
  1. Shop Smart and Plan Meals.
Batch making and planning foods is a Nigerian method that doesn't just help you save time but more money too!

Making meals in batch won’t just save money, it’s time efficient as well.

One of the ways to not just buy things in bulk but also to plan meals. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Have a meal plan so you are organized and avoid spending impulsively.
  • Make meals in batches – soups, stews and jollof rice can be cooked in batches that last a few days and can be preserved by refrigerating.
  • Avoid processed meals and snacks as they have little to no nutritional value and are usually expensive.
  • Use storage methods like freezing, refrigerating or sun-drying to preserve both cooked and raw foods and fruits.
  1. Hydrate Right + Affordable Superfoods
Zobo juice is a nutritious and tasty drink that doesn't just provide nutrients but also refreshment, especially when served chilled.

Zobo juice is a nutritious and tasty drink that doesn’t just provide nutrients but also refreshment, especially when served chilled.

Water is still the number one drink your body needs but if you want to be a little extra, go for healthier options like zobo, kunu, homemade smoothies and fruit juices. Avoid sugary carbonated drinks and sodas as they impact your health negatively in the long run.

Also, daily doses of superfoods like Moringa leaves, Tigernuts, Garlic and Ginger will give you a healthy dose of nutrients you’d need.

Eating healthy, especially in Nigeria, is less about expensive diets and imported foods and more about taking what’s available and utilizing them to get what your body needs!

Whether it’s from the local market or your garden, it’s possible to nourish your body without breaking the bank! Also remember that health is wealth and it starts with what you eat!

ALSO SEE: 5 Reasons why Eating Fruits and Vegetables Regularly Would Make You Healthy

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Health

Surprising Symptoms Of Vitamin D Deficiency

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Vitamin D are fat-soluble compounds that have numerous nutritional benefits for you.. When you suffer from vitamin D deficiency, your muscles and bones are adversely affected. Because the symptoms of vitamin D deficiency are similar to other ailments, it’s difficult to know. Here are some surprising signs that you lack enough vitamin D.

Fatigue and Tiredness

It’s not uncommon to be tired after a busy day’s work or travel ; however, if it continues after some days, it could be low in vitamin D. You could limit your work and have extended rest to reduce the amount of fatigue. Moreover, taking some vitamin D supplements could help you become more agile.

Recurring Illness

Are you experiencing an illness that keeps coming back l, it could be lack of vitamin D . There have been links showing people with low amounts of vitamin D suffering from repetitive illness. If you find yourself in this situation, talking to your doctor could be ideal.

General Body and Muscle Pain

One of the nutrients that your body needs is vitamin D. People who experience frequent back and muscle pain, could be suffering from low vitamin D. While pain relief drugs can be helpful, taking vitamin D supplements and food rich in vitamin D is recommended.

Read Also : 5 Expert – Approved Tips to a Leaner You

Bone Fracture and Osteoporosis

People need vitamin D to help strengthen bone structure. Bone structure helps grow bones, which will make you strong enough to carry out your tasks. However, low vitamin D can cause osteomalacia in most adults, which can lead to soft bones.

Hair Loss

While hair loss is generally linked with old age, vitamin D deficiency can also cause it. This is because vitamin D helps regulate the hair cycle and promotes the growth of new hair. In medical spaces, alopecia is a health disorder that leads to hair loss. Those with this condition should take  foods rich in vitamin D.

Depression

Various factors  cause depression, and they include loss of job, and illness. . However, some research has proven that vitamin D deficiency is one of the reasons why people are depressed. People who are depressed have shown remarkable improvement when they increase their vitamin D intake.

Bottom Line

Vitamin D nutrient supports nerves, muscles and general body health. Low vitamin D can lead to depression, tiredness and frequent illness. You can conduct a blood test to know if you are suffering from vitamin D deficiency, and when it comes out positive, ask your doctor what to take to improve your vitamin D levels.

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Health

5 Reasons To Eat More Avocado

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Are you interested in living a healthy life? Do you think fruits and vegetables are ideal for general health? If you can relate with the above questions, then avocado should top your meals today. Avocado remains a good source of key nutrients which includes fibre and healthy fats. Moreso, Avocado contains high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which combat heart diseases. Here are 5 reasons why eating more avocado is recommended.

Excellent for Gut Health

Avocados have immense fiber, which benefits everyone . Having more fibre in your diet is important because you are relieved of digestive complications. Also, fibre helps maintain a good atmosphere for the growth of healthy bacteria. Various health researchers suggest that taking more avocados can help reduce inflammation and combat cancer.

A Good Source of Healthy Nutrients

Aside from fiber, avocados have a high concentration of essential nutrients, which are unavailable in many diets. This fruit contains the following nutrients :

  • Vitamin C
  • Fat
  • Calorie
  • Vitamin E
  • Riboflavin
  • Niacin
  • Folate
  • Copper
  • Manganese
  • Potassium

These are just some of the nutrients you can find in avocados as it boasts numerous others. These nutrients are available in large proportions in avocados and are beneficial to those seeking good health.

Helps Lower The Risk of Heart Disease 

By taking nutrient-dense fruits like avocado in large quantities , you guard against heart illness. The rich nutrients found in this fruit play a huge role in keeping your cardiovascular system in good shape. One of the benefits of eating avocado is that it helps reduce cholesterol levels in the body. Also, the high potassium in it s is ideal for blood pressure regulation and guarding against heart attacks.

Read Also : 5 Daily Activities That Can Help Lower Blood Pressure

Healthy Body Weight Management 

There are factors that help manage body weight, and they include regular exercise and a balanced diet. Asides having high calories, it contains abundant nutrients that help maintain good body weight. People who are overweight need to it more  and other fibre-based meals to help maintain good body shape.

Ideal for Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women 

Pregnant and breastfeeding women need twice the normal nutrients required. Unfortunately, most women in this state don’t meet the daily requirement, which could cause pregnancy complications. High amounts folate, B6, and vitamins are important for pregnant women. Additionally, avocado is known to help reduce constipation pains,  common during pregnancy.

Final Thoughts

Avocados are excellent sources of important nutrients that the body needs. Eating this fruit regularly will help protect against heart disease, enhance body satiety and improve overall diet quality.

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Health

Get Fit, Stay Fit: Practical Tips From Experts

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A healthy lifestyle is essential for everyone regardless of age, status, and sex. Meanwhile, whole foods and drugs are considered good for overall well-being, keeping fit is highly recommended. If you want to learn how to stay and keep fit, here are some tips that could benefit you .

30 Minutes of Regular Exercise

Regular exercise is one of the ways you can keep fit. Daily exercise is the best , as  10-minute sessions are great for everyone who wants to be healthy. Some effective exercises you can use are :

  • Yoga
  • Running
  • Skipping
  • Swimming
  • Cycling
  • Dancing

Balanced Diet

Aside from regular exercise, you are advised to eat foods rich in proteins and vitamins and low in fats. Moreover, try to reduce your intake of junk food or avoid it totally. This is because most of these foods are unhealthy and have too many carbs; veggies, whole grains, and fruits are some of the best foods to add to your list.

Control Your Mental and Emotional Needs

Technology has been a blessing, however, many people have substituted real-life interactions with virtual communications. This is unwise for people who want to stay fit, as it affects their mental health negatively. You need more physical interactions with loved ones, as it promotes emotional wellness.

Stop Taking Tobacco and Recreational Drugs

Tobacco and recreational drugs could cause adverse effects on human health. It will limit physical fitness and cause a lot of illness. There has been various research that links tobacco with various kinds of cancer. Also, long-term drug abuse could cause memory loss and cognitive problems.

Read Also : 5 Expert – Approved Tips to a Leaner You

Limit Alcohol Consumption

While a bit of alcohol can be healthy, too much alcohol can affect fitness in everyone. Excessive alcohol drinking has been linked to several kidney and liver problems. For those 45 years and above, moderation should be their watchword when it concerns alcohol.

Get Adequate Sleep

Another important fitness tip  is having a good sleep. While there are jobs that could prevent people from having adequate sleep, prioritising health over money is the best policy. Sleeping for 7-8 hours is highly recommended. This would help the body function properly, as it will be able to rest after the day’s work.

 

Regular Medical Checkup

Everyone should make sure they visit the clinic at least twice a year. The human body needs to be regularly checked regardless of your current health status. People have died from heart attacks and strokes without warning. If you see symptoms of weakness or tiredness, you should try to see your doctor. Some supplements and drugs could be prescribed to you based on your current health status. .

Final Thoughts

Staying healthy and fit should be everyone’s major concern. By following these tips, you will stay fit and be healthy.

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