Choose Nature, Live Longer: Anambra First Lady Urges Nigerians to Embrace Healthy Eating to Prevent Lifestyle Diseases

By Praise Chinecherem

The Wife of the Anambra State Governor, Dr. Nonye Soludo, has urged Nigerians to return to natural, wholesome foods, stressing that healthy eating remains one of the most effective ways to prevent lifestyle-related diseases, strengthen immunity and improve overall well-being.

She encouraged families to prioritise locally available fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, roots and tubers, describing them as nature’s gift for sustaining good health and longevity.

According to the First Lady, many of the nation’s indigenous foods are naturally rich in essential nutrients required by the body to function optimally, making them healthier alternatives to highly processed foods that are increasingly linked to chronic illnesses.

“One of the greatest gifts we can give our bodies is to go back to nature. Our local fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, roots and tubers are rich in the nutrients our bodies need to stay healthy and strong,” she said.

Dr. Soludo explained that making conscious food choices can significantly reduce the risk of lifestyle diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, obesity and heart-related ailments, while also improving the body’s natural defence system.

“When we choose natural foods over highly processed ones, we reduce the risk of many lifestyle diseases, boost our immunity, improve digestion, maintain a healthy body weight and enjoy more energy for our daily activities,” she noted.

The governor’s wife emphasised that healthy living should not be viewed as an expensive lifestyle reserved for a few, but as a practical daily commitment that everyone can adopt regardless of income level.

She urged Nigerians to abandon the misconception that healthy meals are costly or require strict dieting, insisting that simple and consistent dietary choices can produce lasting health benefits.

“Remember that healthy eating is not about expensive meals or strict dieting. It’s about making simple, wise choices every day.”

Calling on residents to reconnect with nature through better nutrition, Dr. Soludo said every wholesome meal contributes to a healthier future and a better quality of life.

“Let’s embrace the goodness of nature, fill our plates with wholesome foods, and remember that every healthy meal is an investment in a longer, stronger and happier life.”

Her message reinforces ongoing advocacy for healthier lifestyles and preventive healthcare through proper nutrition, particularly at a time when cases of non-communicable diseases continue to rise across Nigeria.