Madam Dzifa Adzornu, Nutrition Officer, Ho Municipal Health Directorate, has called for the consumption of more water, protein, fruits and moist-based foods to replenish the body and boost the immune system during the harmattan season.
She explained that most people, especially children, lose weight during the dry season and underscored the need for individuals to consume at least eight glasses of water a day to remain hydrated.
Madam Adzornu, who was speaking to the Ghana News Agency in an interview, stated that moist foods such as soups and porridge must dominate menus.
She mentioned that daily consumption of fruits and vegetables strengthens the immune system whilst preventing respiratory tract infections, which often result due to increased pathogens in the dusty atmosphere.
The nutrition officer added that proper food hygiene must be considered, and asked consumers of street foods to patronise vendors who operate in clean surroundings and avoid cold meals.
Madam Adzornu advised parents to ensure kids have nutritious and wholesome home-made foods in school. She charged them to replace unhealthy snacks and sweets with fruits and more water.
The nutrition officer also called on nursing mothers to breastfeed babies at regular intervals, and stressed on good hygienic practices which include handwashing with soap at all times.
She said air-borne infections spread easier with the fast winds of the dry season, and advised the public against open sneezing and spitting around.
GNA