Health Tips: Reminders For A Healthy Holiday Celebration

Here are some health tips from an expert.

HEALTH TIPS – Experts share tips on how to make celebrations safer and healthier through smarter food choices.

As many of us plan to be healthier next year, making small changes through mindful portions and food choices can be a good first step. A new year is just around the corner, and for Media Noche, some experts share some tips on how to be smarter when it comes to food consumption during feasts and flowing drinks.

Department of Health spokesperson Albert Domingo reminded the public to be mindful of eating too much sweet, salty, fatty, and oily food, as this can be harmful. He advised filling half of the plate with fruits and vegetables, and the other half with protein—such as lechon or fried chicken—and carbohydrates like spaghetti and rice.

The point is to always prioritize what is healthy and to be mindful of the unhealthy ones.

“Hindi naman kailangang iwasan, kailangan lang bawasan,” he told DZMM, and added, “Pag naramdaman nang busog… wag na nating lampasan.”

As for drinking, there is no safe amount, but he recommended the “one standard drink per hour” strategy. He discouraged binge drinking or consuming large amounts of alcohol in a short time, and added that people who plan to drive or light firecrackers should not drink alcohol.

Cardiologist Dr. Iris Garcia of the Philippine Heart Association suggested that olive oil is highly recommended for cooking holiday dishes, as it can help lower blood pressure and contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. However, this type of oil is a bit expensive, and some healthy but affordable types she suggested are canola and sunflower oils.

Garcia also stressed that the fat found in the belly of deep-sea fish like salmon is considered good cholesterol, but home cooks can also choose more affordable protein options such as tofu, chicken breast, and other healthy fish.

The expert also set these reminders for a heart-healthy lifestyle: