In line with Proclamation No. 930 series 2020, the second week of March is designated as the Philippine Digestive Health Week (PDHW). Health experts urge Filipinos to take an active role in their digestive health. Through optimal health and nutrition, we can keep our digestive tract healthy in a variety of ways.

The PDHW is being commemorated this year on March 7-13, under the theme “Malusog na Tiyan at Bituka sa gitna ng pandemya”. It emphasizes the need to increase public awareness and educate the public about the prevention and management of various gastrointestinal (GI) disorders.

Colorectal cancer, liver cancer, peptic ulcer disease, diarrhea, and stomach cancer are among the country’s leading causes of sickness and death.

To keep the GI tract healthy, one should exercise several times a week, if not every day. Stress and restlessness should be addressed by getting enough sleep, rest, as well as eliminating stress triggers. Staying hydrated is also important for the body’s GI tract.

Including enough fiber in our diets can help with digestion, regularity, and preventing constipation. It is important to consume a well-balanced and healthy diet to make our digestive system in good shape. Maintaining a healthy weight will also be beneficial.

Reducing alcohol intake may also reduce the acid production in the stomach, preventing heartburn, acid reflux, and stomach ulcers. Excessive alcohol consumption has been linked to bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract. Cigarette smoking should also be reduced or preferably stopped.

To raise awareness about GI health, the Philippine Society of Gastroenterology (PSG) has organized many online events in collaboration with the Department of Health (DOH) and other allied health organizations. They will also have their main event, the 2022 Joint Annual Convention, on March 11-12 & 18-19, 2022.

The smallest discomfort in the gastrointestinal tract can have a significant impact. A medical check-up is recommended to ensure a healthy digestive system.

With increased awareness, people should be able to avoid and manage a wide range of GI diseases. Let us always remember Kumainment #6 – “Tiyaking malinis at ligtas ang ating pagkain at tubig” and Kumainment #10 – “Maging aktibo. Iwasan ang alak; huwag manigarilyo” to always keep our GI tract healthy.

Visit https://www.facebook.com/PhilippineSocietyofGastroenterology for further information, or read more from the Department of Health at https://bit.ly/FAQDigestiveHealth

Written by: NO I Janna Alexia Necio and NPC Milagros Elisa V. Federizo