Nutrition

Benefits of eating okro

Rich in nutrients

Okra is packed with essential nutrients like vitamins A and C, magnesium, potassium, and calcium, which support overall health and vitality.

Supports digestion.

Okra is high in fiber, aiding digestion and preventing constipation. It also supports a healthy gut by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria.

– Lowers cholesterol levels

The fiber content in okra helps reduce cholesterol absorption, lowering the risk of heart disease and improving overall cardiovascular health.

– Manages blood sugar levels

Okra contains compounds like polyphenols and fiber that help regulate blood sugar levels, making it beneficial for individuals with diabetes or at risk of developing diabetes.

– Boosts immune system

Okra is abundant in vitamin C, an antioxidant that strengthens the immune system and helps protect against illnesses and infections.

– Supports weight loss

Okra’s high fiber content promotes feelings of fullness, prevents overeating, and aids in weight management.

-Enhances vision

Okra is rich in vitamin A, which is essential for good vision. Consuming okra regularly may help prevent age-related macular degeneration and maintain healthy eyesight.

– Anti-inflammatory properties

Okra contains anti-inflammatory compounds that may help reduce inflammation and associated chronic diseases, such as arthritis or heart disease.

– Supports bone health

The vitamin C, calcium, and magnesium in okra are essential for maintaining strong bones and preventing conditions like osteoporosis.

– Improves skin health

The antioxidants in okra, including vitamins A and C, help combat free radicals, improve skin texture, and promote a healthy complexion. They may also aid in the prevention of premature ageing and wrinkles.

Source:ndtv.com

● Weight loss

● Good for pregnant women

● -Regulates blood sugar

● -Aids digestion

● -Dietry fibre

Nutrition

Malnutrition in Ghana: A policy crisis hiding in plain sight

Let's fight malnutrition in Ghana

For many Ghanaians, “malnutrition” is often misunderstood as simply a lack of food. But nutrition experts say the reality is far more complex and far more urgent. It is not just about being hungry. It’s about not getting the right nutrients at the right time, especially for children under five and pregnant women. While the consequences are dire, the real danger lies in how little political attention the issue receives.

According to the 2022 Ghana Demographic and Health Survey, 12 per cent of children are underweight, and 6 per cent suffer from wasting, the most life-threatening form of malnutrition. Meanwhile, anaemia affects nearly 50 per cent of women of reproductive age, increasing risks during pregnancy and childbirth.

Nutrition interventions, like vitamin supplementation, school feeding, and treatment for severe malnutrition, are essential to saving lives and securing a healthy population. Yet only 0.4 per cent of the national health budget is allocated to nutrition-specific interventions. Many programs are heavily reliant on foreign aid, which is not only unsustainable but risky. The recent withdrawal of USAID support left a $156 million funding gap, threatening the availability of life-saving nutrition and health services.

The economic cost of this crisis is staggering. Ghana loses an estimated GH₵4.6 billion annually due to the long-term effects of malnutrition on productivity, education, and healthcare. Children who are stunted are more likely to struggle in school, earn less as adults, and suffer from chronic illnesses, all of which lock families into cycles of poverty.

But Ghana can reverse this trajectory. The experience of countries like Rwanda and Peru shows that with strong political commitment, dedicated budget lines, and multisectoral coordination, nutrition outcomes can improve dramatically.

That’s where the Nourish Ghana Project comes in. Led by Women, Media and Change (WOMEC) Organisation, the project aims to raise awareness and push for policy reform through advocacy, stakeholder engagement, and media mobilisation.