The rising rate of kidney failure in our country is deeply alarming 💔🌸. While many may quickly attribute this to our culture of drinking—where no occasion seems complete without alcohol, whether it’s a burial or a child dedication—it is important to reflect more carefully 💭💖. I have observed other countries where people drink even more than we do, yet they experience fewer kidney-related issues. This suggests that the problem is not just how much we drink, but what we drink 🌿🍷.
Beyond alcohol consumption, several lifestyle factors contribute significantly—drug abuse, living in hot climates without adequate water intake, the use of herbal medications without proper dosage, and excessive smoking 🌸💔. These habits, often overlooked, gradually damage our health.
Another concern is the mindset of “it is not my portion” 💭🌿. While comforting, this belief can lead to neglect. Despite growing awareness and education about kidney health, many people continue these harmful habits—and unfortunately, the rate is still increasing 💔🌸. Studies show that about 10–26% of adults suffer from chronic kidney disease, with hypertension and diabetes as leading causes. This translates to millions currently battling different stages of the condition in Nigeria 💖🌿.
It is even more troubling that dialysis centers are not sufficient, even for those who can afford them 💔🌸. One thing we cannot take away from humans is their will—but often, this will is clouded by ignorance or nonchalance 🌿💭.
Our forefathers lived differently 🌸💖. They drank natural palm wine in moderation, ate fresh and natural foods, worked actively on farms, stayed hydrated, and maintained balanced routines. It is no surprise that they did not face the level of health challenges we see today 🌿💪.
Today, however, things have changed 💔🌸. Palm wine is often adulterated, processed foods are everywhere, and sedentary lifestyles have become common. This shift has led to increases in hypertension, obesity, diabetes, and kidney failure—affecting even the most vulnerable populations 💖🌿.
Interestingly, these conditions were once considered “diseases of the wealthy,” but now the trend appears reversed 🌸💭. Many low-income individuals rely heavily on processed foods, while the wealthy invest more in natural diets, exercise, and healthier living 💪🌿.
Let this be a gentle reminder 💖🌸: embrace home-cooked meals, eat more vegetables, and engage in daily physical activity that makes you sweat. Being overweight or having excess belly fat is not healthy—but change can start gradually 🌿💪. Do not feel ashamed; instead, make a conscious effort each day.
Create a consistent eating routine that works for you—whether it’s 6, 8, or 12 hours of structured meals 🌸🍽️. If there is a history of hypertension, diabetes, or related conditions in your family, take time to learn about it and adjust your lifestyle accordingly 💖🌿.
Most importantly, do not be misled by advertising 🌸💭. These companies are focused on selling products—not safeguarding your health. Your wellbeing is your responsibility 💪💖. There is a clear difference between food and products. Let your food be your medicine, not your burden 🌿🍲.
This is not to say you should never enjoy your favorite snacks or fast foods 🌸😊—but be mindful. Just as the rat that plays with the lizard in the rain must consider whether its skin can dry like the lizard’s, we must also consider the consequences of our choices 💭🌿.
Remember: not everything that tastes good is good for you 💔🌸. What sweetens the tongue may trouble the body. Take care of your health—it is your greatest wealth 💖🌿.
Ndu ka aku… health is wealth. He that has ears, let him hear. 🌸💖
I remain your friend and brother,
Maazi Onuora Obodoechi 🌿🤝
Pen it down. 