DOH CAUTIONS AGAINST SALTY, FATTY, SWEET DISHES DURING HOLIDAYS

Department of Health urged Filipinos to limit consumption of foods high in sodium, sugar and cholesterol during this season of festivities (Photo courtesy of ABS-CBN News)

The Department of Health (DOH) reminded Filipinos to refrain from eating too much sweets, salt, and fats with Christmas fast approaching that will lead to health complications to reduce the risk of non-communicable diseases.

DOH Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo specifically warned against the three 'mas'— matamis, maalat, at mataba (sweet, salty, and fatty food). Domingo said these types of food can cause high blood pressure, diabetes and other non-communicable diseases like obesity which could result in heart problems and other parts of the body.

Christmas and New Year dishes, such as ham, leche flan, crispy pata, and pasta, can be high in sodium, cholesterol or sugar. High consumption of sodium or salt may increase one’s blood pressure, which may further lead to a stroke in the brain or a heart attack.

Cholesterol can also lead to plaque buildup in the arteries, increasing the risk of a heart attack. Blood sugar levels may rise due to the consumption of many sweets.

According to the Food and Nutrition Research Institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), the “Pinggang Pinoy” is a food guide that uses a food plate model to show the recommended proportion by food group in every meal to meet the body's energy and nutrient needs.

“On a plate, when we eat, half should ideally be filled with fruits and vegetables, and one-fourth should be reserved for rice only. One-fourth should be for meat or other fatty foods,” he added.

Non-communicable diseases can be prevented through a balanced diet and regular exercise. DOH also advised avoiding excessive alcohol consumption, as it can damage the liver and increase the risk of vehicular accidents when under the influence.

The health agency also recommended to use fresh ingredients (vegetables, fish, and meats), proper serving and storage, wrapping dry food instead of sauce-based dishes, food dishes may be covered and placed inside the refrigerator once cooled off to extend shelf life, to avoid food spoilage.

Source: GMA Integrated News 

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