VAHA Champions Nutritional Awareness on Équinoxe Radio & TV
As part of its continued commitment to promoting preventive healthcare through public education, Value Health Africa (VAHA) was recently featured on Équinoxe Radio and Television during the health-focused programme You and Your Health, hosted by Immaculate Forgwe.
Representing the organization was the Littoral Regional Coordinator, Mr. Sébastien Ade, who engaged listeners in an insightful conversation on the importance of adopting healthy dietary habits. This engagement also served as a platform to spotlight VAHA’s ongoing field campaign titled:
“Healthy Food Choices Matter – Save the Next Generation.”
This campaign, initiated in collaboration with Radar, seeks to improve nutritional literacy at the grassroots level by educating communities on how informed food choices can prevent the rising burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) across Cameroon and the wider Central African region.
Key Discussion Highlights
During the interactive session, Mr. Ade addressed several pressing questions from the audience, shedding light on core nutritional concepts:
1. What defines a healthy diet for an average adult?
A healthy diet is one that provides a balanced intake of macronutrients (carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats), along with essential vitamins and minerals. It emphasizes whole foods—such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, lean proteins, and healthy fats—while minimizing processed foods high in sugar, salt, and trans fats.
2. What is the role of portion control in maintaining a healthy diet?
Portion control is a critical component of healthy eating. By consuming appropriate serving sizes, individuals can manage calorie intake, maintain a healthy weight, and achieve better nutrient balance. Proper portion control also helps reduce the risk of chronic conditions such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease. Additionally, it promotes better digestion and reduces gastrointestinal discomfort.
3. What food groups are essential for optimal health?
A nutritionally adequate diet should include:
- Fruits and vegetables – for vitamins, minerals, and fiber
- Whole grains – for sustained energy and digestion
- Lean proteins – such as legumes, fish, poultry, and eggs
- Healthy fats – from sources like nuts, seeds, and avocados
- Dairy or alternatives – for calcium and vitamin D
4. How important is hydration in a healthy diet?
Water is essential for virtually all bodily functions, including metabolism, temperature regulation, digestion, and nutrient transportation. Adequate hydration supports cognitive function and physical performance. Adults are advised to consume a minimum of 1.5 to 2 liters of water daily, with increased needs in hot climates or during physical activity.
5. How do culture and lifestyle impact dietary choices?
Cultural practices and daily routines significantly shape food preferences and consumption patterns. While traditional diets can offer many health benefits, they may also include practices that need to be adjusted for modern health challenges. VAHA advocates for culturally sensitive nutrition education that respects local traditions while encouraging healthier modifications in cooking methods and ingredient choices.
Advancing Public Health Through Nutrition Education
Through platforms like You and Your Health, VAHA is strengthening its mission to build health-literate communities. The “Healthy Food Choices Matter” campaign reinforces the need for preventive nutrition education, especially among vulnerable populations such as children, youth, and women of reproductive age.
This initiative also aligns with global health targets aimed at reducing the prevalence of non-communicable diseases through sustainable, community-led interventions.
About Value Health Africa (VAHA)
VAHA is a leading health-focused nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing public health in Africa through community empowerment, health education, and advocacy. Our interventions target key determinants of health, particularly in underserved communities, to build a healthier and more informed population.
Follow our journey as we continue to promote health equity through informed food choices and sustainable community engagement.