20 February 2023- The National Nutrition Council- Region Office and the Nutritionist-Dietitians Association of the Philippines-La Union Chapter (NDAP-LU) joined the Department of Health-CHD1 and Ilocos Training and Regional Medical Center (ITRMC for the Heart Month 2023 Culminating Celebration at Saint Louis Colleges (SLC) Gymnasium, City of San Fernando, La Union in partnership with the said school.
This year’s theme “KaHEARTner: Move More, Eat Right” highlights the importance of exercise and healthy diet towards protection against obesity and non-communicable diseases specifically heart diseases.
Hon. Ruperto Rillera, of Sangguniang Panlalawigan Member of the 2nd District of the Province La Union, graced the activity as he warmly welcomed everyone and thanked the organizing agency for being able to conduct a unique activity for the province of La Union.
Director Paula Paz Sydionco, Regional Director of the DOH-CHD1 shared some words of encouragement through her inspirational message for everyone’s active involvement in the activity.
A biking and walking caravan happened before proceeding to the main event- starting from DOH CHD vicinity to SLC Gymnasium as the final point- participated by biking and health enthusiasts. A dance competition was also held while ongoing simultaneous health services. A variety of services were freely enjoyed by participants including screening, urinalysis, medical check-ups and prescriptions, and lifestyle and dental services.
CPR and Cooking demonstrations were also performed,
Ms. Jovita Leny Calaguas, Nutritionist-Dietitian IV of the DOH-CHD 1 and President of the Nutritionist-Dietitians Association of the Philippines-La Union Chapter (NDAP-LU) led the preparation of low-cost nutritious meals.
NNC1 together with NDAP-LU and the nutrition clinic of ITRMC put up a nutrition booth highlighting diet prescription and counseling, distribution of IEC and other reading materials such as the Pinggang Pinoy, 10 Kumainments, NNC Recipe book, NNC Policy Statement on Fad Diets, First 1000 Days guidebook, Counseling Cards, etc.
The team provided Nutrition Assessment and Diet Counselling while representatives from the ITRMC Nutrition Clinic through Dr. Reynaldo Estandian provided Diet Prescriptions to the clients.
CHD1 NCD team also organized a diet challenge called Salo-Salo Fiesta where clients were asked to fill-in their plates from food models provided and have it checked by the assigned Nutritionist-Dietitians.
Around 200 participants attended the activity from the faculty and students od SLC and invited general public.
Indeed, a one day activity does not totally change one’s lifestyle and perception, it takes a long rough road but with the courage and continuous effort advocating healthy lifestyle and good nutrition, soon we’ll achieve healthier and healthier community.
By..Christy Bautista,DMO II,NNC Region 1
