An oral rumor has been circulating among the Central African population for several months, claiming that consuming Maggi cubes, which contain iodized salts, increases cardiovascular risk. This is true, as confirmed by health specialists to AFC.
Verification:
“This information is accurate, as the salt content in Maggi cubes is often higher compared to other ingredients, which is why we advise against excessive consumption of Maggi cubes in meals,” explained Dr. Mbary Siolo Mada Bebelou, Head of the Nutrition and Food Hygiene Service at the Directorate of Primary Health Care at the Bangui University Hospital (CHUB).
In an interview with AFC, Dr. Jess-Elio Kosh-Komba, Pediatric Oncologist and President of ASEAC (Association for the Relief of Children with Cancer) at the Ministry of Health, confirmed: “When there is too much salt in our body, it causes the secretion of fluids in our vessels, muscles, and arteries, leading to hypertension.”
He also urged individuals with hypertension to monitor their diet, stating: “Those with hypertension, diabetes, and stroke should reduce their salt intake and ideally stop consuming Maggi cubes altogether.”
An article published on smun.fr on September 9, 2020, notes: “If Maggi bouillon cubes are dangerous, it is primarily due to their salt content. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), excessive salt consumption is one of the main causes of non-communicable diseases, including certain types of cancers, cardiovascular diseases, strokes, and hypertension.”
In response, WHO recommends preventive measures such as: reducing salt intake to less than 5g per day, eating fruits and vegetables, engaging in regular physical activity, avoiding tobacco and alcohol, and limiting consumption of fatty foods. It also advises on management strategies including: reducing and managing stress, regularly measuring blood pressure, treating hypertension, and addressing other health conditions.
By Fouf-Kagna / Marie-Paule Vopiade / Romaric Gbomandji
This article is produced under the Internews-AFC partnership funded by USAID. However, the content does not engage the partner’s responsibility.
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