MANILA, Philippines — As Christmas draws closer, Filipino families are getting ready for reunions, parties, gift-giving, and the much-awaited Noche Buena. But amid the excitement and preparations, one important thing should not be overlooked: staying healthy.
The holiday season often means more food on the table, less time for exercise, irregular sleeping schedules, and a busier social calendar. While enjoying these traditions is part of the Filipino Christmas experience, Meijia Diagnostic and Wellness Center reminds the public that taking care of their health should remain a priority.
One of the health concerns worth watching during the holidays is the increased consumption of salty, sweet, fatty, and oily foods. Popular Christmas dishes such as ham, lechon, queso de bola, processed meats, cakes, and other desserts can be enjoyed, but eating too much of these foods may contribute to excessive salt, sugar, and fat intake.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an unhealthy diet is a major risk factor for noncommunicable diseases, including diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. High sodium consumption is also associated with increased blood pressure. This makes moderation especially important for individuals with existing conditions such as hypertension and diabetes.
The Department of Health (DOH), through its 2026 Ligtas Christmas campaign, also encourages Filipinos to practice healthier holiday habits through its Healthy Handaan and BiyaHealthy Ngayong Pasko initiatives.
Food safety is another important concern during Christmas gatherings.
With families preparing large amounts of food for celebrations, proper food handling and storage should not be ignored. Food that is not cooked properly, handled safely, or stored at the correct temperature can become contaminated with harmful microorganisms and cause foodborne illnesses.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends washing hands, separating raw and cooked food, cooking food thoroughly, and refrigerating perishable food promptly to help prevent food poisoning.
Beyond food and celebrations, the holiday season is also a good opportunity to check on one’s overall health. People with hypertension, diabetes, and other existing medical conditions should continue following their prescribed treatment and avoid skipping regular checkups, even when their schedules become busy.
For those who have not had their routine health assessments, the weeks leading up to Christmas can be a practical time to schedule basic diagnostic tests and consultations. Blood tests, blood pressure monitoring, and other appropriate examinations can help individuals and their healthcare providers assess their current health status and identify concerns that may require further attention.
Meijia Diagnostic and Wellness Center encourages everyone to listen to their bodies and avoid ignoring unusual symptoms such as persistent fatigue, dizziness, frequent headaches, chest discomfort, or unusual changes in their health. Severe symptoms, particularly chest pain or difficulty breathing, require immediate medical attention.
A healthier Christmas starts with simple everyday choices.
Filipinos do not have to give up their favorite holiday dishes or miss out on celebrations to stay healthy. Eating balanced meals, drinking enough water, getting adequate sleep, staying physically active, and being mindful of food portions can make a difference.
More importantly, preventive healthcare should not be reserved for when someone already feels sick. Regular health assessments and timely medical consultations can help people make informed decisions about their well-being.
As the Christmas season approaches, Meijia Diagnostic and Wellness Center reminds everyone that the best gift they can give themselves and their loved ones is the gift of good health.
Celebrate the season, enjoy the festivities, and make your health part of the Christmas preparation.
About Meijia Diagnostic and Wellness Center
Meijia Diagnostic and Wellness Center is committed to providing accessible and reliable diagnostic and healthcare services to individuals, families, and corporate clients. Its services include laboratory testing, X-ray, ultrasound, ECG and 2D Echo, vaccinations, executive checkups, annual physical examinations, specialist consultations, teleconsultation, and home service, among others.
For inquiries and appointments:
☎️ Landline: (02) 7116 3698
📞 Mobile: 0962 637 9219
📩 Email: info@meijiahealth.com
📍 Ground Floor, Commercial 1 & 2, Sky I Tower, #68 Dasmariñas St., Barangay 282, San Nicolas, Binondo, Manila
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