The Department of Health (DOH) consistently urges the public to practice moderation in eating during the holiday season to ensure a safe and healthy celebration.
"Ang sinasabi namin sa DOH para ligtas ang ating Christmas, dapat mayroon tayong tamang pagkain. Ang tamang pagkain ay bawas-bawasan o iwasan ang mga pagkaing MA: sobrang maalat, matamis, at mataba," DOH Spokesperson Asec. Albert Domingo said during an exclusive interview with DZRH's Damdaming Bayan on Tuesday.
He also advised the public to adopt healthy eating habits this season by following the "Pinggang Pinoy" guidelines.
This involves ensuring that half of the plate consists of vegetables and fruits, while one-fourth is allocated for sweets and carbohydrates, and the remaining one-fourth is reserved for fatty foods and protein.
Domingo further emphasized that to avoid illnesses caused by alcohol consumption, it is important to remember that prevention is better than cure. He added that it is best to refrain from drinking altogether, if possible.
"Pag tayo’y nakaranas ng paninikip ng dibdib na biglaan o kaya ‘yung pananakit na sobrang bigat, or hirap huminga, importante ho na tayo’y sumangguni kaagad sa emergency room," said Domingo.
Domingo also discussed the condition known as holiday heart syndrome, where excessive alcohol consumption causes irregular heartbeats, leading to complications.
To administer first aid in such situations, he advised that the patient should be laid down and the three key aspects—airway, breathing, and circulation—should be checked.
Ultimately, binge-eating is also not advisable, especially with the upcoming holiday feasts, as it increases the risk of choking. It is important to eat slowly and in moderation.
