Some dietary experts have urged Nigerians to take steps to always balance their diets to promote wellness.
The experts gave the advice at the virtual fourth World Juice Day, celebrated by CHI Limited, producers of Chivita fruit drink in Lagos.
According to the experts, the first step on the journey of wellness is balance in diets, which is achievable by evaluating and taking advantage of readily available and affordable nutrient fillers.
They recommended the regular consumption of fruit juice as a key ingredient that can provide important nutrients for overall health and wellness.
Dr Olusola Malomo, an Assistant Chief Dietitian/Nutritionist with the Lagos State Health Service Commission, said that human beings desired a healthy life.
“As such, we rely heavily on the nutrients, vitamins and minerals derived from our daily food consumption to stay healthy.
“Regardless of the motive for food consumption, one of the best measures to building and sustaining a healthy lifestyle is to regularly consume antioxidant-rich beverages such as 100 per cent fruit juice.
“Fruit juice has same nutritional value with natural fruits and is a valuable source of nutrients that are bioactive and can support the immune system by fighting free radicals and also reducing fatigue.
“Drinking a glass of fruit juice daily can boost Vitamin C and folate intake and, by so doing, support the optimal functioning of the body’s immune system.
“It can also help lower inflammation and has a beneficial effect against cardiovascular diseases,” he said.
Mrs Toyin Nnodi, Marketing Director, CHI Limited, said that there was a need for more Nigerians to embrace fruit juice consumption.
According to Nnodi, daily intake of fruit juices fortifies the immune system and keeps the body hydrated.
“Fruit juices are impactful for people of all ages because the nutritional benefits apply to everyone.
“At this year’s edition of Chivita World Juice Day, we are underlining the health benefits of fruit juice consumption as a necessity for everyday wellness.
“Including a glass of fruit juice as part of your daily diet can help you unlock a healthier and more fruitful life,” she said.
The World Juice Day is commemorated annually on Oct. 17.
In Nigeria, it is a public interest initiative undertaken by producer of the Chivita brand to deepen conversations on the consumption of fruit juices, and thus enable healthy living for all Nigerians.
The 2022 edition, which is the fourth in the series, brought the benefits of fruit juice consumption to the centre stage of national discourse by highlighting its importance in complementing and enhancing a wholesome lifestyle.