How You Can Reduce Risk Of Communicable Diseases –Dieticians

Dieticians and other experts have been providing update on how the risk of communicable diseases could be reduced.

The advices are coming against the backdrop of  different communicable diseases keeping a strong foothold in Nigeria,

Among individuals and organisations that have provide such insight are Head of Department, Nutrition and Dietetics of the Kwara State University Teaching Hospital (KWASUTH), Mr Bashir Onifade, the Kwara State Nutrition Officer, Dr Bankole Olugbenga, as well as a medical platform, MedicalNews Today

Mr Onifade, speaking on the sidelines of the commemoration of the World Registered Dietitians Nutritionist Day, submitted that the intake of nutrients could be a good way of containing risk of communicable disease.

Nutrients he said, could help in strengthen the immune system, thereby supporting the body to prevent, fight, and recover from communicable diseases.

Onifade stated that nutritious foods have the ability to reverse deficiencies that make individuals more susceptible to infections.

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“Dieticians and nutritionists educate people on how to make healthy choices through better nutrition.

“Diet is important for good health, when you consume wrong foods like junk foods, then you are prone to communicable diseases”, he added.

Harping on the importance of balanced diets, the dietician stated that it helps in boosting energy levels support overall health, strengthen immune system and reduce risk of chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers.

He said the number of malnourished children in Kwara has reduced due to the efforts of the state government in administering micronutrients powder as complementary meal to the children.

Sharing his perspective on how to reduce risk of communicable diseases, Dr Olugbenga, he stated that good food is not just fuel for the body, but contains valuable nutrients that help to prevent non-communicable diseases.

According to MedicalNews Today, people can reduce their risk of contracting or transmitting disease-causing pathogens by following the steps below:

1. washing their hands thoroughly and regularly
2. disinfecting surfaces at home often, especially doorknobs and food areas
3. disinfecting personal items such as phones
4. cooking meats, eggs, and other foods thoroughly
5. practicing good hygiene when preparing and handling food
6. avoiding eating spoiled food
7. avoiding touching wild animals, and receiving available vaccinations amongst others