The federal ministry of health and social welfare has
cautioned Nigerians against excess intake of salt.
The caution follows a viral video where Chris Oyakhilome, the
president and founder of Loveworld Incorporated, better known as Christ
Embassy, was advising his congregation to eat more salt.
In the video, the clergy noted that Africans were
deliberately made to avoid salt so that they could buy sodium-infused drugs.
In a statement on Wednesday, Alaba Balogun, the ministry’s
deputy director of information and public relations, said salt contains sodium
— an essential mineral that supports vital body functions— but needs to be
taken in moderation.
“The federal ministry of health and social welfare has
observed a widely circulated video in which a respected religious leader
discourages Nigerians from heeding medical advice on salt consumption,” the
statement reads.
“While we deeply respect the important role of faith and
religious leaders in our society, it is crucial to correct misinformation that
poses a risk to public health.”
Balogun noted that salt intake is not bad, warning that its
excessive consumption contributes to high blood pressure, stroke, heart
failure, kidney disease, and other preventable illnesses.
He said the World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends a
maximum of 5 grams of salt per day (about one teaspoon).
He added that research has shown that Nigerians consume more
than double the stipulated daily sodium intake.
Balogun said the ministry will launch the national sodium
reduction guidelines aimed at reducing salt content across all food categories.
“Salt is not the enemy. Salt contains sodium, an essential
mineral that supports vital body functions such as nerve activity, muscle
movement, and fluid balance. However, the concern lies in excessive
consumption, not in salt itself,” he said.
“We wish to state clearly: Doctors do not lie. Nigeria’s
health professionals are trained to offer evidence-based guidance rooted in
decades of scientific research and patient care.
“The presence of regulated sodium compounds in certain
medications is not equivalent to dietary salt (sodium chloride) and is safe when
prescribed appropriately.”
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