DOH: Eat healthy and drink moderately this holiday season

National

WHILE different holiday meals are so tempting this Christmas, the Department of Health (DOH) has reminded the public to still eat healthy.

The DOH advised the public to be mindful of what they eat, especially with a series of parties amidst the Christmas celebration.

The public should avoid overeating, especially those foods with high sugar content, fats, and oil as this may lead to a more serious health condition like diabetes.

To ensure safe meals for the family, the DOH also advised the public to check the expiration dates of the ingredients and ensure that they are well cooked.

The DOH, in its social media account, promotes its “Ligtas Christmas” campaign with a countdown on days before Christmas and with daily reminders to Filipinos.

“Mas masarap ang salu-salo kapag balanse at in moderation ang handa. Iwasan ang pagkaing maaalat, mataba ang matatamis,” the DOH said.

As to alcoholic drinks, drinking sessions with friends and families are avoidable, but the health agency urged the public to drink moderately. Likewise, it is better to drink at least eight glasses a day.

The Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) has also a reminder to the public.

Just like the DOH, PhilHealth also advised to avoid overeating unhealthy foods, especially those with high levels of sugar like sweets, which is a common “handa” during get-togethers this holiday season.

“Register with PhilHealth Konsulta to avail yourself of services and medicines for diabetes,” the state health insurer said, per a Philippine Star report.

The government agencies likewise told the public that regular exercise should also be partnered in healthy eating to avoid weight gain and high blood pressure.

The DOH also urged everyone to avoid using firecrackers and, rather, use other alternatives like pans, drums, and playing loud music, to ensure everyone in the family celebrates Christmas and New Year safely.(LAO)