Physician Specialist and Cardiologist Fellow at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, Dr Albert Agbi, has urged Ghanaians to moderate their intake of salted fish commonly known as koobi and momoni due to their high sodium content.
He explained that while the foods add flavour to meals, excessive consumption could increase sodium levels in the body and contribute to health problems, particularly high blood pressure.
Speaking on the Citi Breakfast Show on Friday, September 11, Dr Agbi said koobi is particularly high in sodium because of the amount of salt used in its preparation.
“It’s nice; it gives flavour. But it’s very high in sodium. Because of the salt,” he said.
Excessive sodium intake can cause the body to retain fluid, increasing blood pressure and placing additional strain on the heart and blood vessels, thereby raising the risk of cardiovascular complications.
“I’m not going to touch that for Ghanaians because I know they will not forgive you. So I’m not recommending you stop. But in moderation,” he said.
Dr Agbi also encouraged the public to include potassium-rich foods such as fresh coconut water, bananas and other fruits in their diets, noting that potassium is an important nutrient for the body.
He said dietary approaches such as the DASH and Mediterranean diets emphasise foods that are high in potassium and can support healthier eating habits.
Dr Agbi therefore urged Ghanaians to pay closer attention to the types and portions of food they consume, alongside regular exercise, as part of efforts to prevent lifestyle-related health conditions.
