As cases of hypertension and cardiovascular diseases rise across Nigeria, health experts have urged citizens to go beyond reducing salt intake and deliberately increase consumption of potassium-rich foods to improve heart health.
The call was made by researchers from the Nigeria Sodium Study Team at the University of Abuja’s Cardiovascular Research Centre, who stressed that managing blood pressure requires a balanced dietary approach that includes adequate potassium intake.
Leading the charge, Professor Dike Ojji, Professor of Medicine and Preventive Cardiology at the College of Health Sciences, University of Abuja, warned that many Nigerians are not meeting recommended potassium levels necessary for healthy blood pressure control.
He explained that while reducing salt remains important, potassium plays a critical role in counteracting the harmful effects of excess sodium and helps lower blood pressure. According to him, studies show Nigerians consume only about 60 percent of the potassium intake recommended by the World Health Organisation.
Ojji described the situation as a major health concern, noting that potassium commonly found in leafy vegetables, fruits, legumes, and tubers—is essential for regulating blood pressure.
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However, shifting dietary habits, particularly in urban areas, have made it harder for many Nigerians to maintain adequate intake. The growing dependence on processed foods and seasoning cubes has significantly reduced the consumption of natural, potassium-rich meals.
To tackle this imbalance, experts are recommending practical dietary changes, including the adoption of potassium-enriched or low-sodium salt as a healthier alternative.
Also speaking, Professor Bruce Neal of the George Institute at the University of New South Wales said such alternatives are necessary to bridge the gap between current eating patterns and healthier dietary needs.
Similarly, Professor Mark Huffman of Washington University in St. Louis, and co-principal investigator of the study, said public health messaging is shifting toward realistic and accessible solutions rather than just warnings against high salt consumption.
The health experts further emphasised that increasing the intake of potassium-rich foods especially leafy vegetables remains one of the most natural and effective ways to improve overall health outcomes.
Ojji added that Nigerians are more likely to adopt healthier habits when practical options are provided instead of strict restrictions.
“People respond better when you provide alternatives, not just limitations. The goal is to help Nigerians make smarter dietary choices that fit into their everyday lives. The message is clear: reduce salt intake and increase potassium consumption,” he said.
The Nigeria Sodium Study Team, backed by international collaborations across the United States and Australia and funded by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, is gaining attention for its role in shaping dietary recommendations and public health policies.
With hypertension contributing to thousands of preventable deaths annually, experts believe that combining reduced salt intake with increased potassium consumption could significantly reverse the trend and improve cardiovascular health nationwide.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.