A medical doctor recently sparked a heated debate on X (formerly known as Twitter) when he posted a list of 20 foods consumed by Nigerians that he believes are unhealthy. The list included a mix of popular Nigerian dishes, snacks, and drinks, which led to widespread criticism from social media users.
In his post, the doctor highlighted both local and foreign foods that are regularly eaten in Nigeria. These included:
- Shawarma
- Pizza
- Hot dogs
- Noodles
- Bread
- Foreign rice
- Spaghetti
- Snacks
- Butter
- Sardines
- Canned food
- Sugars
- Soft drinks
- Energy drinks
- Semo
- Ofe akwu (banga soup) – He warned that the red oil in the soup is too much, so it should be eaten in moderation.
- Biscuits
- Ice cream
- Imported fruits – He encouraged people to eat more local fruits instead.
- Hydrogenated oils – He claimed these are “poison.”
The list caught many by surprise, especially since it included foods that are considered staples in the average Nigerian diet, like bread, spaghetti, and foreign rice. The doctor’s advice to avoid popular snacks and fast foods also triggered strong reactions. Many Nigerians felt the list was extreme, while others argued that these foods are fine if consumed in moderation.
Some users appreciated the doctor’s intent but felt that categorizing such common foods as “unhealthy” was too broad. For instance, the suggestion to avoid foreign fruits in favor of local ones seemed practical to some, but others questioned how realistic it was for everyone to make such a switch.
The overall reaction to the list was one of skepticism, with many people stating that balance and moderation are key to maintaining a healthy diet, regardless of whether the food is local or foreign.
In the ongoing conversation about nutrition and healthy eating, it’s important to remember that no single food is entirely “good” or “bad.” Rather, it’s the way we consume these foods—how often, how much, and in combination with other foods—that makes a difference in our overall health.
