The Complexity of Healthy Eating: What You Need to Know

As dietary habits shift globally, understanding the impact of cultural traditions and modern influences is essential for making healthier choices.

Culinary Crossroads

The per capita daily food energy intake in West Africa surged from 2,002 kcal in 1985 to 2,626 kcal by the end of 2021. This statistic from the food balance sheets of the Food and Agricultural Organization highlights a substantial shift in dietary patterns, driven by urbanization, globalization, and lifestyle changes. The growing adoption of Western diets across the continent brings with it a host of health concerns and cultural implications.

Western diets, characterized by high levels of processed foods, sugars, and unhealthy fats, are linked to rising rates of obesity and non-communicable diseases such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular conditions. As urban populations in West Africa increasingly turn to white bread, refined grains, and processed foods, traditional staples like cereals and vegetables are falling by the wayside. This dietary transition not only elevates cholesterol levels but also reduces the intake of essential nutrients from fruits and vegetables.

In response to these health challenges, a movement to reintroduce indigenous diets and promote sustainable agricultural practices is gaining momentum. Indigenous foods, particularly . . .