Indigenous diet of the Yoruba ethnic majority in Southwestern Nigeria and its cardiometabolic impacts: a comprehensive review

Abstract Background Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are a growing burden among the Yoruba of southwestern Nigeria, where rates exceed other national zones. The traditional Yoruba diet has progressively given way to Westernised patterns, a shift increasingly recognised as a driver of deteriorating cardiometabolic outcomes. Methods A systematic literature search was conducted across Scopus, ScienceDirect, PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar to identify peer-reviewed studies documenting the cardioprotective properties of indigenous Yoruba foods and their bioactive compounds. No date restriction was applied. Results The classical Yoruba diet encompasses indigenous vegetables ( Corchorus olitorius , Telfairia occidentalis , Talinum triangulare ), fruits ( Carica papaya , Citrus × paradisi , Phoenix dactylifera ), allium vegetables ( Allium sativum , Allium cepa ), legumes ( Glycine max ), root tubers ( Dioscorea polygonoides ), and flavourings ( Ocimum gratissimum , Cymbopogon citratus ). These foods contain specific bioactive compounds including flavonoids (quercetin, kaempferol), organosulphur compounds (allicin), saponins (diosgenin), and carotenoids (lycopene, lutein) that exert cardioprotective effects. Mechanistic evidence demonstrates blood pressure regulation (ACE inhibition, H₂S/NO-mediated vasodilation), lipid modulation (LDL reduction, HDL elevation), oxidative stress attenuation (enhanced SOD/catalase, reduced lipid peroxidation), suppression of vascular inflammation (NF-κB, TNF-α, IL-6 downregulation), and inhibition of platelet aggregation. Traditional leaf-based packaging and fermentation methods may enhance bioavailability of these compounds. Conversely, the shift toward carbonated beverages, commercial alcohol, and plastic-packaged foods is associated with adverse cardiometabolic outcomes. Conclusion Traditional Yoruba dietary practices are cardioprotective. Their deliberate reintegration through culturally adapted public health interventions may help address Nigeria’s escalating CVD burden.