By Ma. Teresa Montemayor
MANILA – The Department of Health (DOH) on Monday reminded Filipinos to observe caution when consuming foods with too much salt, fats and sugar during this season of festivities.
DOH spokesperson Assistant Secretary Albert 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.
“Kapag tumaas ang presyon ng dugo, habang tumatagal lalo na kung matanda, actually hindi nga matagal eh, mabilis na baka maputukan ng ugat, nagkakaroon tayo ng stroke na sinasabi sa utak (Prolonged high blood pressure especially among the elderly could lead to rupture of nerves in the brain or stroke),” he said.
“Iyong matatabang pagkain na kinakain natin nagbabara iyan ‘no, nagiging cholesterol plaques sa ating mga ugat sa puso at iyon ‘yung magiging sanhi noong tinatawag na heart attack (The fatty foods that we eat become cholesterol plaques blocking the arteries and causes heart attack),” he added.
The DOH urges Filipinos to observe a healthy Christmas by eating the right foods, exercising regularly, and practicing discipline for healthy behaviors.
To avoid the dangers of food poisoning, the DOH reminded Filipinos to observe the best practices when cooking food to be served at family gatherings and parties.
Domingo said it is important that fresh ingredients — vegetables, fish, and meats — are used in cooking dishes.
When taking home foods from parties, he said to choose those that have been grilled or fried over those with soup and sauces.
“Mas madali kasing mapanis iyong may sarsa (Food with sauces gets spoiled easily),” he said.
Proper serving and storage also play an important role in food spoilage.
He noted food dishes may be covered and placed inside the refrigerator once cooled off to extend shelf life. (PNA)
