DOH: Eat, drink moderately for healthier holidays

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Health warned against stress, binge eating, too much alcohol intake and the lack of physical activity this holiday season.

"Christmas is the season be jolly, but these happy times also bring risks to your health. We must be conscious of any potential holiday health hazard, such as indigestion, allergies, high blood pressure, injuries due to accidents, and alcohol-related problems," Health Secretary Janette Garin said in a statement.

"We can have fun and be healthy at the same time if we learn to balance and moderate ourselves," she added.

Because celebrations for Christmas and New Year in the Philippines last for weeks on end, the agency suggested families to prepare well-balanced holiday meals which include vegetables and fruits along with the traditional holiday food such as ham, lechon, queso de bola and sweets during the Yuletide season.

Garin also urged the public to ensure cleanliness and freshness of the food prepared or brought to parties to avoid food poisoning.

Eating moderately is also good practice as only a certain amount is needed to sustain daily activities, she said.

Salty and fatty foods are to be similarly avoided, as these may cause heart conditions and lead to other diseases. She said drinking plenty of liquids like water and fruit juices will help in digestion and excretion.

The DOH also warned the public against excessive alcohol intake, that may result in vehicular accidents, serious damage to the liver and heart or may induce stroke.

"As much as possible, avoid too much alcohol. It is very important not to drink and drive. Too much alcohol can cause serious damage to the liver and heart or may induce stroke," Garin said.

Aside from eating and drinking moderately, the DOH secretary advised the public to keep away from holiday stress by preparing ahead and avoiding holiday rush.

Resting the mind and body well to avoid over fatigue is also key in avoiding complications due to stress, such as heart diseases and hypertension.

Regular exercise, including walking, running and dancing, enough sleep and a balanced diet are wise activities for the holidays.

"Pasko man o bagong taon, hindi ito dahilan para abusuhin natin ang ating katawan. Pangalagaan natin ang ating sarili upang ang Pasko ay maging maligaya at sabay-sabay nating salubungin ang Bagong Taon ng ligtas, malusog, at masagana," Garin said.