Ignore Pastor Oyakhilome, Excessive Salt Consumption Dangerous, Warns Ministry of Health
The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has issued a public health advisory cautioning Nigerians against excessive salt consumption, following a viral video by Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, founder of Loveworld Incorporated (Christ Embassy), which encouraged his followers to increase their salt intake.
In the video, Pastor Oyakhilome claimed that Africans have been “deliberately discouraged” from consuming salt to create a dependence on sodium-based medications.
He stated, “They told you not to take salt so that you can buy their drugs – drugs that contain sodium. Salt is not your enemy.”
However, the health ministry has strongly disagreed with this claim, emphasizing the importance of adhering to medically sound dietary advice.
According to Alaba Balogun, Deputy Director of Information and Public Relations at the ministry, while sodium is essential for nerve and muscle function, excessive salt intake is linked to serious health risks, including high blood pressure, heart failure, stroke, and kidney disease.
The ministry reiterated the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recommendation of a maximum of 5 grams of salt per day, approximately one teaspoon, for adults.
The ministry’s warning comes as a response to the potential health risks associated with excessive salt consumption, which can have devastating consequences for individuals and the nation as a whole.
The ministry acknowledged the influential role of faith leaders in society but stressed the need to correct misinformation that could jeopardize public health.
“We urge Nigerians to seek health guidance from certified professionals and to be cautious of advice not grounded in scientific evidence,” said Balogun.
“It is essential to rely on evidence-based medical guidance for dietary and health decisions, rather than following unverified claims or advice from non-medical sources,” he pointed out.
This incident highlights the importance of critical thinking and skepticism in the face of unsubstantiated claims, particularly those that may have significant implications for public health.
As the ministry emphasized, it is crucial to prioritize medically sound advice and to be aware of the potential risks associated with excessive salt consumption.
In light of this development, Nigerians are advised to take the following precautions:
* Limit salt intake to a maximum of 5 grams per day, approximately one teaspoon
* Seek health guidance from certified professionals
* Be cautious of advice not grounded in scientific evidence
* Prioritize medically sound dietary advice
By taking these precautions, Nigerians can reduce their risk of developing serious health problems associated with excessive salt consumption and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary to ensure the health and well-being of the Nigerian public.
