Have Stress-Free, Healthy Celebrations

MANILA, Philippines — At this time of year, when Filipinos welcome the New Year, they are urged to watch their health during the holidays to avoid getting non-communicable diseases (NCDs) or lifestyle-related illnesses.

NCDs are leading causes of death in the country. Cardiovascular diseases, cancers, pulmonary diseases,and diabetes mellitus – the four major NCDs in the country – are linked by four common and preventable risk factors related to lifestyle – tobacco use, unhealthy diet, lack of physical activity, and alcohol use.

A study shows that NCDs peak during the holiday season, when people shop, eat, party, hold reunions and stay up late. Stress and the holiday rush are blamed for the rise of NCDs. People are stressed due to malling, buying gifts, thinking of earning extra to buy gifts and food, and forgetting to drink medicines. They tend to overeat and consume salty, sweet, and fatty foods. People who suffer from NCDs may find their conditions worsening during the holidays, especially if they do not practice a healthy lifestyle.

There are ways to ensure healthy and stress-free holidays. Avoid the holiday rush to prevent stress. Give children safe toys. Buy registered products toensure safety. Prepare healthy food such as vegetables and fruits. Make sure that fruits are unspoiled and fresh to avoid food poisoning. Attend festivities but eat moderately. Avoid fatty and salty foods. Enjoy the holidays but drink moderately. Do not drink and drive. Engage in regular exercise. Have enough rest and sleep. Avoid accidents due to firecrackers.

The overlap of the cold and flu season with the holidays and the change in weather result in increasing incidence of respiratory tract infection. Getting a flu shot is important, but precautions reduce the risk of getting sick or spreading illness to others. Tips to avoid flu or cough: When coughing or sneezing, use tissue paper to prevent the spread of viruses.

Wash hands regularly. Use serving spoons or forks – never fingers – to put food on plates. Find creative ways to personalize cups to avoid mix-up. Don’t serve beverages in original containers as people may get confused about which bottle belongs to them. Carry hand sanitizers. Instead of shaking hands and hugging, greet with a friendly wave or elbow tap. May sure to get enough sleep; if down with flu or cough, stay at home.

Have a safe and stress-free holiday celebrations!