Managing high blood pressure does not begin and end with medication, according to dietician Serwaa Adu Adjei of Tema Urban Hospital, who has urged Ghanaians to pay closer attention to their everyday eating and lifestyle habits.
Speaking on Nyansapo Fie on Plan B FM, hosted by Akosua Gyamfua, Serwaa Adu Adjei said simple but consistent changes in diet can play an important role in preventing and managing hypertension.
She identified excessive salt consumption as one of the major dietary concerns, cautioning people against adding too much salt and relying heavily on artificial spices when preparing meals.
The dietician also advised people with hypertension to reduce their intake of oily foods, pastries, energy drinks and excessive caffeine, noting that unhealthy dietary choices can negatively affect cardiovascular health.
She recommended healthier cooking oils, including olive, sunflower and canola oils, as alternatives to fats high in saturated fat. She further encouraged people who eat outside the home to consider fish as a healthier protein option instead of meat.
According to her, a healthy diet should not be about completely eliminating essential food groups. Rather, meals should contain a proper balance of carbohydrates, protein and vegetables to provide the body with the nutrients it needs.
Beyond food, Serwaa Adu Adjei stressed the importance of physical activity and encouraged families to make exercise part of their daily routine. She also urged people to eat fresh fruits regularly and maintain healthy lifestyle habits.
She advised Ghanaians to check their blood pressure regularly, particularly at health facilities, to allow for early detection and intervention.
On medication, she cautioned patients against making decisions based on uncertainty, urging anyone who is unsure about their prescribed drugs or dosage to consult their doctor for clarification.
She emphasised that controlling hypertension requires a long-term commitment, combining proper nutrition, physical activity, regular health checks and adherence to professional medical advice.
By: Sandra Kwapong
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