By Mariela Angella Oladive
As the holiday season nears, the Iloilo Provincial Health Office is encouraging Ilonggos to practice mindful eating and maintain a balanced lifestyle during festive celebrations.
Provincial Health Officer Dr. Maria Socorro Colmenares-Quiñon urged the public on Friday to enjoy the holidays responsibly by being aware of their dietary choices to avoid common health risks.
“During the holidays, we often gather with family, sharing meals and celebrating together. But we must not forget that our health is what matters most. Let’s be mindful of our eating patterns so we can avoid illnesses that may arise from excessive calorie intake,” Dr. Quiñon said.
She emphasized that overindulging during the holidays can increase the risk of diabetes, hypertension, and obesity.
“Diabetes is often caused by consuming too many sugary foods and carbohydrates, while hypertension may result from overeating salty and fatty foods,” she explained. “Obesity, in turn, can stem from overeating in general, leading to long-term health complications.”
To promote healthier eating habits, Dr. Quiñon highlighted the importance of moderation, balance, and variety.
“Overeating—even healthy foods—can lead to malnutrition, just as much as food deprivation. No single food can provide everything our bodies need, so it’s crucial to choose a variety of nutritious options,” she added.
Dr. Quiñon introduced Pinggang Pinoy, a food guide developed by the Department of Science and Technology-Food and Nutrition Research Institute (DOST-FNRI) and the Department of Health (DOH). This tool encourages balanced meals for various age groups, including children, teens, adults, pregnant and breastfeeding women, and the elderly.
The Pinggang Pinoy divides food into three categories:
- GO foods: Carbohydrate-rich options that provide energy.
- GROW foods: Protein-rich sources vital for growth and repair.
- GLOW foods: Fruits and vegetables that supply essential vitamins and minerals.
Dr. Quiñon also underscored the importance of regular exercise alongside healthy eating to achieve overall wellness.
“With moderation, balance, and variety in our eating habits, we can achieve optimum nutrition and enjoy a healthy holiday season,” she said, extending her wishes for a “Happy, Healthy, and Nutritious Holidays.”
The health office’s initiative aims to remind the public that mindful eating during the holidays contributes to long-term health, ensuring celebrations remain enjoyable without compromising well-being.
