Leading nutritionists in Nigeria have called on parents and guardians to limit the consumption of processed foods among children, citing rising concerns over childhood obesity and related health complications.

Speaking during a health seminar organised by the Nigerian Nutrition Society (NNS) in Abuja on Monday, Dr. Evelyn Okafor, a senior dietitian at the National Hospital, stressed that processed foods, including sugary snacks, packaged snacks, and fast food items, contribute significantly to poor dietary habits in children.

“Parents must take responsibility for the nutritional choices of their children. Excessive consumption of processed foods can lead to obesity, diabetes, and other long-term health problems. We encourage the inclusion of fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in children’s diets,” Dr. Okafor said.

Dr. Okafor further highlighted that children exposed to high levels of sodium, sugar, and artificial additives are more likely to develop cardiovascular and metabolic disorders later in life.

Similarly, Mr. Chinedu Nwosu, a nutrition expert with the Ministry of Health, advised schools to regulate the types of snacks available to pupils. “Schools have a crucial role to play. By limiting processed foods in cafeterias and encouraging healthier alternatives, we can instil good eating habits from an early age,” he noted.

The nutritionists also urged the government to implement nationwide campaigns promoting healthy eating and to regulate advertising of processed foods targeted at children.

Parents, experts say, should actively involve children in meal planning and preparation, ensuring balanced diets that support proper growth and development.

Background: Recent studies by the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research indicate that over 20 per cent of Nigerian children aged 6–12 years are overweight or obese, a figure that has doubled in the last decade due to changing dietary patterns and increased consumption of processed foods.