Public urged: Work off those holiday calories

MANILA, Philippines – Eating and drinking too much during the holidays can land you in a hospital, health officials warned.

“Binge eating during the holidays is dangerous. Everything must be in moderation, and don’t forget to include vegetables and fruits in your menu… eat moderately,” acting Health Secretary Janette Garin said yesterday.

Anthony Leachon, president of the Philippine College of Physicians, said cases of heart attacks and strokes increase during holidays.

Leachon added this is primarily due to unhealthy diet and the cold weather.

Garin, on the other hand, said the public should not disregard their health during the holidays and take time to exercise rather than engage in binge eating and drinking.

Garin said it is important for everyone to drink lots of water and to stay away from alcohol as much as possible.

Garin warned eating too much lechon and ham could lead to high blood pressure. Having dried salted fish as alternative after the holidays can also have the same complications, she said.

Leachon advised the public to drink hot water and to bathe with warm water to prevent constriction of the heart vessels.

“Stay active by doing 20- to 30-minute exercise in any form of walking, dancing and other. Time to reflect not to smoke and drink less alcohol for New Year’s resolutions,” he said.