Ghanaians may need to reconsider the amount of ‘koobi’ and ‘momone’ they include in their meals, as a cardiologist has cautioned that excessive intake could elevate the risk of high blood pressure due to their high sodium levels.
Dr. Albert Agbi, a Physician Specialist and Cardiology Fellow at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, states that these popular salted fish varieties contain considerable amounts of sodium, which can lead to increased blood pressure when consumed in excess.
In an interview with Accra-based Citi FM, Dr. Agbi recognized the significant role that koobi and momoni play in enhancing the flavor of Ghanaian cuisine but urged consumers to practice moderation.
“It’s nice, it gives flavour. But it’s very high in sodium. Because of the salt,” he remarked.
He elaborated that excessive sodium consumption leads to fluid retention in the body, which can elevate blood pressure and exert additional strain on the heart and blood vessels.
According to him, sustained high sodium intake could heighten the risk of cardiovascular issues, making moderation particularly crucial.
While it may be challenging for many Ghanaians to eliminate koobi and momoni from their diets entirely, Dr. Agbi suggested that reducing the quantity consumed would be a more feasible solution.
“I’m not going to touch that for Ghanaians because I know they will not forgive you. So I’m not recommending you to stop. But in moderation,” he stated.
The cardiologist also encouraged Ghanaians to add more potassium-rich foods to their diets, such as fresh coconut water, bananas, and various fruits.
He pointed out that dietary strategies like the DASH and Mediterranean diets emphasize potassium-rich foods and can assist in fostering healthier eating habits.
Dr. Agbi further urged the public to be mindful not only of their food choices but also of portion sizes, while combining healthy eating with regular physical activity to mitigate the risk of lifestyle-related diseases.
