Professor Umukoro Advocates for Vegetables and Fruits as Natural Defence Against Stress and Disease
The University of Ibadan's 560th Inaugural Lecture, delivered by Professor Solomon Umukoro, a renowned expert in Pharmacology and Therapeutics, highlighted the critical role of vegetables and fruits in promoting health, longevity, and stress management.
UBA CHIDINMA 
The University of Ibadan's 560th Inaugural Lecture, delivered by Professor Solomon Umukoro, a renowned expert in Pharmacology and Therapeutics, highlighted the critical role of vegetables and fruits in promoting health, longevity, and stress management. The lecture, titled "Neglected Armoury for Winning the Battle of a Hidden, Deadly Foe within the Fold of Folds," was delivered on behalf of the Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences.
In his address, Professor Umukoro emphasized the need for individuals to utilize natural resources like plant-based products to fortify their bodies against the harmful effects of stress, which he described as a hidden, deadly foe. He explained that stress, whether physical, psychological, or biotic, is an unavoidable part of daily life and a significant contributor to various health issues, including neuropsychiatric disorders, age-related diseases, and weakened immune systems.
Professor Umukoro warned that chronic stress can lead to the destruction of brain cells, organ dysfunction, and diseases such as aggression, violence, and addictive behaviors. He noted that suicide often results from unmitigated stress and a lack of hope.
To combat these health threats, Professor Umukoro advised regular consumption of fruits and vegetables, which have been proven to mitigate stress and prevent the onset of age-related conditions. He further advocated for strong social support systems in communities, emphasizing the importance of being good neighbors in homes, schools, workplaces, and religious institutions.
The professor also urged national and state leaders to take conscious steps to alleviate the stress burdens on their citizens by improving welfare, tackling economic hardship, and addressing insecurity.
This lecture was the tenth in the University of Ibadan's 2023/2024 inaugural lecture series and left attendees with important insights into the relationship between stress, nutrition, and overall health.
