Dr Chris Aminarh Emphasises the Importance Of Purposeful Vitamin Intake

As the festive season intensifies, health experts are urging Ghanaians to pay closer attention to their diet and vitamin intake, warning that excessive indulgence particularly alcohol consumption, late-night eating and highly processed foods can have serious health consequences.

Speaking on Big Convo, Dr Chris Aminarh, highlighted December as a period of heightened physical stress, marked by constant social activity, irregular sleep patterns and poor nutritional choices. According to the discussion, many people underestimate how much energy they lose during this period and fail to replenish it appropriately, increasing the risk of fatigue, illness and, in extreme cases, sudden health complications.

The conversation stressed that while festive indulgence is understandable, balance remains critical. Regular consumption of sugary drinks, heavy carbohydrates and late-night meals often followed immediately by sleep, places unnecessary strain on the body. These habits, the expert noted, are common contributors to weight gain, poor digestion and weakened immunity during the holidays.

A key focus of the discussion was the role of vitamins, not merely as supplements but as essential nutrients obtained through everyday meals. Vitamins, the expert explained, are required in small but consistent quantities and are broadly classified into fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E and K) and water-soluble vitamins (mainly B-complex and vitamin C).

Fat-soluble vitamins are stored in body tissues, while water-soluble vitamins are not retained and must be replenished daily. Vitamin C, for instance, plays a critical role in immunity and wound healing, with deficiencies often linked to bleeding gums, slow recovery from injuries and frequent infections.

Vitamin A was also highlighted for its importance in vision, immune function and overall eye health. Foods such as Nkontomire, palm oil, carrots, ripe plantain and garden eggs were identified as rich sources. However, the expert cautioned that overcooking vegetables can significantly reduce their nutritional value.

While acknowledging that many traditional Ghanaian meals are nutritionally balanced, the discussion pointed out that portion sizes are often skewed toward carbohydrates, with vegetables and fruits taking up minimal space on the plate. A healthier meal should prioritise vegetables and fruits, complemented by moderate portions of carbohydrates and proteins.

Ultimately, the message was clear: good health during December is not about deprivation, but awareness. Understanding what to eat, when to eat and why certain foods matter could be the difference between enjoying the season safely and putting one’s health at risk.