Public urged to be mindful of their diets to avoid diseases 

The public has been urged to be careful of their diets during these festive celebrations to avoid diseases such as, diabetes, cancers, chronic respiratory conditions, cardiovascular diseases, among others. 

“The public should prioritise home-cooked meals with fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, and plenty of water while engaging in physical activities for good health.” 

 A joint statement from the NCD Alliance Ghana, and the Vision for Accelerated Sustainable Development, Ghana both civil society organisations and copied to the Ghana News Agency said while Christmas and New Year bring joy, family reunions, travel, feasting, and social connections, they also heighten exposure to diseases. 

The statement said noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) accounted for approximately 45 per cent of all deaths in Ghana annually, with modifiable risks like unhealthy diets, physical inactivity, alcohol and tobacco use, and air pollution driving much of these preventable diseases and health burden. 

“The festive period sharply alters our food environment. Street foods, fast foods, sugary drinks, ultra-processed foods, and convenience items dominate gatherings, markets, and travel routes,” it noted. 

The statement said these products, often high in salt, sugar, trans fats, and additives, displace nutritious options and contribute to rapid rises in blood pressure, blood glucose, and cardiovascular risk – effects that can emerge within days or weeks. 

It stated that global evidence linked diets high in ultra-processed foods to over 20 per cent increased risk of heart disease and type ‘2’ diabetes compared to fresh, whole-food-based meals.  

“In Ghana’s urban settings, ultra-processed foods comprise more than 30 per cent of processed items in retail outlets, fuelling the rising double burden of malnutrition alongside obesity, stunting, nutrient deficiencies and NCDs. 

“These foods are high in calories, unhealthy fats, and salt and lack essential vitamins, minerals, and fibre, leading to the double burden,” it pointed out. 

The statement noted that sitting for long hours also increase the risks of diseases and implored the citizenry to undertake short break and walk for 30 minutes a day to reduce blood sugar spikes and improve circulation. 

“You should plan movement into your day. Walk short distances. Dance intentionally and avoid spending entire days sitting,” it advised. 

The statement urged the public to avoid traveling with drivers under the influence of alcohol or any substances of abuse and immediately report such drivers to the police while calling on the law enforcement agencies to enforce drink-driving laws without exception.  

It advised the youth to desist from the use of tobacco and nicotine products including shisha and vapes or electronic cigarettes, which are mostly designed to hook them and become addictive. 

“Tobacco kills more than half of its users and contributes to heart disease, stroke, cancer, and chronic lung disease,” it said and that all shisha and vapes products sold and use in Ghana are illegal. 

The statement noted that festive season also brings unique mental health challenges from financial pressures of gift-giving expectations, family tensions, grief for lost loved ones, and the stress of meeting year-end demands. 

It said these triggered anxiety, depression, and unhealthy coping mechanisms and encouraged Ghanaians to set realistic budgets, maintain healthy boundaries, and seek support when overwhelmed. 

“Remember that your presence matters more than presents. Mental wellbeing is inseparable from physical health – both deserve protection this season. 

“The festive season is a time of joy and togetherness, but it should not come at the cost of our health and safety. The true measure of festive success is families returning whole, healthy, and alive in the new year. 

“By embracing these few public health tips, Ghanaians can celebrate sustainably.” Mr Labram Musah, the National Coordinator, NCD Alliance Ghana; and Executive Director, Vision for Accelerated Sustainable Development, Ghana concluded. 

Source: GNA