By Rita Okonkwo
Many Nigerian households avoid Ofe Akwu, popularly known as Banga soup, because of the belief that it increases cholesterol levels. However, cardiologists, nutritionists and researchers say the traditional delicacy is not inherently harmful to heart health when prepared in moderation and with healthier cooking methods.
According to medical experts, the body produces most of its cholesterol in the liver, while dietary cholesterol plays a less significant role. They explained that the palm fruit extract used in preparing Ofe Akwu differs from refined bottled palm oil, as it is extracted at low temperatures and contains a mixture of oil and water with comparatively lower levels of saturated fat.
Consultant Cardiologist and Chief Medical Director of Naveen Healthcare, Lagos, Dr. Monisola Adanijo, advised Nigerians to choose cooking oils that promote good health. She recommended reducing saturated fats, removing excess fat from palm nut extract before cooking and adopting lighter preparation methods to make the soup more heart-friendly.
Similarly, Cardiologist at Wuse General Hospital, Abuja, Dr. Kunle Iyanda, warned that excessive use of palm oil and groundnut oil in traditional soups could increase the risk of high cholesterol, stroke and heart disease. He urged Nigerians to reduce the quantity of oil used in meals as part of efforts to protect their cardiovascular health.
Chief Nutritionist at Shomolu General Hospital, Lagos, Mrs. Olufunmilola Adewumi, noted that palm nut extract contains beneficial antioxidants and vitamins. She added that the particular saturated fat found in palm fruit extract has not been shown to significantly raise harmful LDL cholesterol levels.
Researchers from the Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun (FUPRE), who studied Banga soup, also reported that the dish is rich in phytochemicals, fibre and other nutrients. Their findings indicate that health concerns are linked mainly to frequent consumption of high-fat preparations rather than the soup itself.
Health experts stressed that the greater threat to heart health comes from unhealthy eating habits and lifestyle choices, including frequent consumption of fatty meats, oversized portions of starchy foods such as garri and fufu, inadequate intake of vegetables, sugary beverages and physical inactivity. They also noted that advancing age and a family history of heart disease increase the risk of developing high cholesterol.
To make Ofe Akwu healthier, doctors recommend skimming off excess fat after cooling the palm fruit extract, using more fish than red meat, adding fibre-rich vegetables such as ugu and okazi, and limiting consumption to one or two servings weekly. They also advised people aged 40 and above, individuals living with diabetes and those with a family history of heart disease to undergo regular cholesterol screening.
The experts concluded that Ofe Akwu is not the cause of high cholesterol. Rather, they emphasised that balanced nutrition, moderation and healthy lifestyle choices are the key to protecting heart health while continuing to enjoy one of Nigeria’s cherished traditional dishes.
Rita Okonkwo is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
#Ministryofinformationandvaluareformation
#Anambraisrising
#Informationiskey
#Solutionishere
#Solutioncontinues
