Lay off unhealthy food this Christmas

EATING too much unhealthy food, especially those high in sugar, salt and fats, increases the risk of getting noncommunicable diseases or NCDs.

The Healthy Philippines Alliance (HPA) issued the reminder to Filipinos who go on food binges during the Christmas season.

HPA is a network of organizations advocating for the prevention and control of noncommunicable diseases like diabetes, heart disease and cancer.

«You may be tempted to overeat, especially at Christmas parties or dinners, but instead of binging on food, eat a normal-sized serving. Also, incorporate vegetables on your plate. Plus, fresh fruits for dessert are a better option. Always think of your health first because you would not want to develop NCDs after the year ends,» Dr. Jaime Galvez Tan, former Health secretary and convener of the HPA, said.

Tan also encouraged families to check the nutrition labels on packaged food before buying and serving them for the holidays.

This way, they can identify and avoid which beverages or food products are unhealthy.

«It is an advantage if families can read and understand back-of-pack nutrient labels, but it can be time-consuming for most of us, while grocery shopping during the Christmas rush would be most helpful if mandatory food warning labels at the front of food packs were developed. This way, we can reject, at one glance, any food high in sugar, salt or fats,» Tan said.

The group also reminded people to stay physically active, avoid excessive alcohol consumption, avoid smoking cigarettes and vape products, and get enough sleep seven to eight hours a night to prevent NCDs during the holiday season.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there are about 512,000 deaths every year due to NCDs, which account for 70 percent of total deaths in the country.

NCDs are the number one cause of death and disability worldwide, killing 41 million people each year, equivalent to 74 percent of all deaths globally, WHO said.

In a related development, the Department of Health (DoH) on Friday shared its Ligtas Christmas tips for a safe and healthy holiday season.

Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa said the Ligtas Christmas tips are divided into three categories: Healthy