Nutrition Month is an annual celebration held in the Philippines every July to promote awareness and encourage Filipinos to prioritize their health through a healthy and balanced diet. This year's theme is "Healthy diet gawing affordable para sa lahat" which translates to "Make a healthy diet affordable for everyone."
The theme is particularly relevant given the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, which has highlighted the importance of maintaining good health and a strong immune system. Many people have also faced financial challenges due to the pandemic, making it difficult for them to afford healthy food options. The aim of this year's Nutrition Month is to provide practical tips and resources to help Filipinos make healthier food choices while staying within their budget.
The Department of Health (DOH) leads the annual Nutrition Month campaign and provides guidance on how individuals and communities can participate. One of the key messages of the campaign is the importance of a diverse and balanced diet, which includes a variety of nutrient-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. The DOH also emphasizes the need to limit the intake of processed and high-fat foods, sugary drinks, and snacks.
To help Filipinos make healthier choices, the DOH has provided several tips and guidelines on how to prepare nutritious meals on a budget. These include:
1. Planning meals in advance - this can help reduce food waste and save money by buying only the necessary ingredients.
2. Choosing seasonal and locally grown fruits and vegetables - these are often cheaper and fresher than imported produce.
3. Opting for affordable protein sources - such as eggs, beans, and canned tuna, which are good sources of protein and are more affordable than meat.
4. Cooking at home - this can save money compared to eating out and makes it easier to control the amount of salt, sugar, and fat in meals.
5. Using herbs and spices instead of salt and seasonings - this can add flavor to meals without adding excess sodium.
By following these tips, Filipinos can make healthier food choices while still staying within their budget.
In addition to the DOH, various organizations and institutions also participate in the Nutrition Month campaign. Schools, for example, often hold educational activities and events to promote healthy eating habits among their students. Private companies may also launch initiatives to encourage their employees to adopt healthier lifestyles.
Nutrition Month is an important annual event in the Philippines that aims to raise awareness about the importance of a healthy and balanced diet. This year's theme of "Healthy diet gawing affordable para sa lahat" emphasizes the need to make healthy food options accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial situation. By following practical tips and guidelines, Filipinos can make healthier choices and improve their overall health and well-being.
References:
Department of Health. (2021). Nutrition Month 2021. Retrieved from https://www.doh.gov.ph/events/nutrition-month/nutrition-month-2021
GMA News Online. (2021). Nutrition Month 2021: Healthy diet made affordable for all. Retrieved from https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/lifestyle/healthandwellness/792454/nutrition-month-2021-healthy-diet-made-affordable-for-all/story/
