Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
The Nigerian Institute of Food Science and Technology (NIFST), Michael Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike chapter, has embarked on sensitisation of Abia rural women on the gains of consuming foods replete with vitamins and minerals.
According to NIFST, consumption of micro-nutrients will make families stay healthy and away from hospitals.
Addressing female farmers during a workshop at Ahuwa Oboro in Ikwuano Local Government Area of Abia State, the convener, Professor Nneoma Obasi, urged women to place their families on micro-nutrients instead of excess carbohydrates.
She explained that woman were targeted for the training “because they are mostly involved in determining the family nutrition through menu selection.”
According to her, consumption of foods high in vitamins and minerals is the best way to avoid micro-nutrients malnourishment.
“Micro-nutrients are vitamins and minerals needed by the body in very small amounts, but their impact on the body’s health is very essential as their deficiencies will result to critical and complicated health issues and even death if not managed.
She taught the women how to process food items rich in minerals to maximise the nutrients in them.
They were also taught the symptoms of lack of some of these vitamins and minerals.
Professor Obasi further encouraged them to consciously consume more fruits and vegetables “and if possible use them as meals.”
The participants were further encouraged to have home gardens and plant fruits so as to spend less on fruits and vegetables if they have theirs to harvest.
Meanwhile, the participants thanked NIFST for the training promising to apply the gains for the good of their families.
They, however, pleaded with the convener to sustain such awareness.
