San Fernando La Union (PIA) – The Department of Health (DOH) Center for Health Development Region 1 (CHD1) is advocating for healthier and safer dining traditions this holiday season by highlighting food preparation safety and balanced meals in its Healthy Handaan campaign under the Ligtas Christmas 2024 initiative.
As part of the Ligtas Christmas 2024 program, DOH CHD1 launched the Healthy Handaan sub-campaign, emphasizing the importance of preparing nutritious and safe meals during Christmas and New Year festivities. This initiative aligns with the department’s broader mission to prevent foodborne illnesses and lifestyle-related diseases that often peak during the holiday season.
Traditional Filipino holiday feasts are rich in fatty, salty, and sugary dishes, which contribute to spikes in hypertension, diabetes, and other health issues. Additionally, improper food handling and storage can lead to foodborne illnesses, potentially disrupting festive celebrations.
Emphasizing balanced and safe meals
Traditional Filipino holiday feasts often feature rich, fatty, and sugary dishes, contributing to spikes in hypertension, diabetes, and other health issues.
Improper food handling and storage can also lead to foodborne illnesses, potentially disrupting celebrations.
The Healthy Handaan campaign underscores the importance of preparing nutritious and safe meals during Christmas and New Year festivities, aligning with the DOH’s mission to prevent foodborne illnesses and lifestyle-related diseases that often peak during the holiday season.
Practical tips for a healthy feast
To ensure a safe and nutritious holiday spread, DOH-CHD 1 offers the following practical tips:
- Balance Your Plate: Follow the Go, Grow, Glow concept by including carbohydrates, proteins, fruits, and vegetables in every meal.
- Practice Moderation: Limit consumption of fatty and sugary foods, and opt for healthier alternatives like fresh fruits and lean protein.
- Ensure Food Safety: Wash hands thoroughly before handling food.
- Cook dishes at the right temperature to avoid contamination.
- Store leftovers properly to prevent spoilage.
Raymark Perreras, Health Education and Promotion Officer III of DOH-CHD 1, reminds everyone that while enjoying festive meals this holiday season, it’s essential to prioritize nutrition to safeguard the family’s health.
“Let’s prioritize our family’s health this season by serving balanced meals. A nutritious feast is key to a joyful and safe celebration,” Perreras said.
The Healthy Handaan campaign also advocates for reducing alcohol consumption and staying hydrated during celebrations. Families are encouraged to explore healthier ingredient swaps, such as using natural sweeteners or grilling instead of frying.
DOH-CHD 1 will conduct information drives in communities and partner with local government units (LGUs) to promote the campaign. The initiative aims to empower households to make informed decisions about their food choices, ensuring a Pamilyang Patok, Pagkumpleto at Ligtas celebration.
Community engagement and family traditions
Local families in La Union have warmly embraced the campaign’s message, finding practical ways to make their holiday meals healthier without sacrificing flavor.
Jevie Chan from San Fernando City, La Union shares how her family has adjusted their festive menu.
“We’ve started incorporating more vegetables and fruits into our holiday menu. It’s about balancing our favorite lechon with healthier options so we can enjoy without guilt,” Chan said.
Similarly, Rowel Ferrer from Agoo highlights the positive changes he’s made in his cooking habits.
“I’ve learned to prepare dishes with less oil and salt, and my family appreciates the change. The campaign’s tips have been very practical,” Ferrer remarked.
A call for healthy choices
As the holiday season approaches, the DOH reminds families that health and happiness go hand in hand. By choosing safe food practices and balanced meals, every Filipino can enjoy a Ligtas Christmas that is both festive and nourishing. For more tips, follow the DOH on social media or contact their hotline.
“Healthy food doesn’t just nourish the body—it strengthens bonds. Let’s make this Christmas meaningful by putting health and safety first,” Perreras concluded.
In the Philippines, foodborne illnesses have seen a notable increase, underscoring the importance of food safety measures during the holiday season. From January to August 2023, salmonella cases rose by 42%, reaching approximately 13,000, up from 9,000 in 2022.
Additionally, the Department of Health reported significant increases in several food and waterborne diseases in early 2023 compared to the same period in 2022:
- Acute Bloody Diarrhea: Cases increased by 101 percent.
- Rotavirus Infections: Increased by 123 percent.
- Typhoid Fever: Cases doubled, with a 101 percent rise.
- Acute Viral Hepatitis: Rose by 20 percent.
- Hepatitis A: Cases saw a 67 percent increase.
- Cholera: Cases decreased by 6 percent.
These statistics highlight the critical need for stringent food safety practices, especially during the festive season when food preparation and consumption are at their peak.
For the most current and detailed information, it’s advisable to consult DOH official publications or contact their offices directly. (CCMT/AIHR/PIA Region 1)
