DIPOLOG CITY (PIA) – As we usher in a new year, the age-old tradition of “bettering oneself” once again makes an appearance.
Whether it’s to commit to selfcare or to finally practice some discipline and start saving, self-improvement is always the core of nearly everyone’s new year resolutions, and one of the common is always to start living a healthier life.
However, simply saying that we’re committing to a healthier lifestyle is much easier said than done. While gyms and public spaces can be seen filled with people eager to get a head-start on their health journey at the start of the year, more often than not, it usually starts dwindling down to its usual number by the end of the month.
Which begs the question: how can we fully commit and see through our healthier resolutions?
Zamboanga del Norte’s Provincial Health office went on an episode of Talakayan sa PIA to discuss tips and habits the public can incorporate into their routine for a healthier 2025.
Ms. Jendra Duran, health education promotion officer, highlighted that one of the first and foremost habits we should incorporate is being more mindful of our diets.
She encouraged the use of the “Pinggang Pinoy”, a graph showing the portions needed to meet your nutritional goals without overindulging.
She also discouraged anyone from trying starvation diets, wherein with the goal of losing weight, people stop eating altogether, saying that this is counterproductive and unsustainable.
While at it, Duran encouraged people to visit their local Rural Health Units and get vaccinated in order to get protection from vaccine-preventable diseases.
Ms. Charlin Montilla, program coordinator of PHO’s Non-Communicable Diseases also advised at least 15-30 minutes of exercise a day.
While they acknowledged the limitations brought about by time constraints from work and other responsibilities, they also highlighted that big changes can come from consistent small efforts.
“You just have to keep showing up for yourself, and you won’t even notice how much time has passed until you slowly start seeing results,” Montilla said.
She encouraged activities like walking by Sunset Boulevard and even joining a running community.
In line with trying to get people into new healthy habits, the PHO is also hosting a “New Healthy Habits Tiktok Challenge” showcasing creative new ways to incorporate healthy habits in 2025.
Details of the challenge can be found on the Zamboanga del Norte Facebook page. (EDT/PJF/PIA9-Zamboanga del Norte)