Public told: Don't pig out on unhealthy food, drinks

MANILA, Philippines - The Department of Health (DOH) yesterday warned the public against pigging out on unhealthy food and drinks this Yuletide season.

“There are now parties left and right because of the holiday season. We just hope that the public will be careful with what they eat. Christmas is not an excuse to eat whatever you want,” said Dr. Lyndon Leesuy, program manager of the DOH’s Emerging and Re-emerging Diseases.

Leesuy advised the public, especially those who have cardio-vascular ailments, to avoid eating fatty and oily food.

“Everything must be taken in moderation. If you’re going to drive, don’t drink (alcohol), not only for yourself but for the people around you as well,” he said.

He added that caution must also be observed in re-heating food, to avoid food poisoning.

He also urged caterers to strictly observe proper food handling and sanitation in preparing food for parties.

“It is your responsibility to make sure that you prepare and cook your food well. We don’t want to see food poisoning cases this season,” Leesuy said, adding that party organizers should choose caterers they are familiar with.