Lechon, which is derived from the Spanish word for roasted suckling pig, is one of the most popular dishes in the Philippines, particularly during special occasions or celebrations such as Christmas. In fact, lechon is not only a popular holiday food but also a Christmas tradition. The slow-roasted suckling pig is typically stuffed with lemongrass, tamarind, garlic, onions, and chives before being roasted over an open fire on a large bamboo spit. A Filipino celebration would be incomplete without the lechon in the center of the table, looking all glorious and ready to be devoured. This national dish is always the first in line and the star of the feast which fills hungry stomachs with joy after a satisfying meal.
Filipinos are known as a letchon-eater. However, lechon is exceptionally high in calories, as a result, the Department of Health (DOH) warned the public that eating too much lechon will lead to hypertension or even heart attack due to its high fat content. The majority of its calories come from saturated fats, which, when consumed in excess, can lead to complications. With that, amidst all the festivities during holiday season one must remember how to stay healthy during the holidays. If one must eat lechon, he or she should keep in mind some important dietary reminders, such as eating less pork, using a small plate when eating, including vegetables in the diet, and drinking plenty of water. It is acceptable to consume a portion the size of a deck of cards three times per week. But, for those with hypertension or heart disease, should be limited to once a week. It is important to monitor one's consumption of unhealthy foods like these, as failure to do so may result in serious health risks.
Holiday season is just around the corner. While we're still in the early days of September, some of us are already looking forward to the holiday season that will cap off our 2022. With this, there are numerous special occasions that come ahead of Christmas. This season is full of treats and booze that can throw us off our weekly diet and workout routines. However, we should always remember that too much of anything is bad, so moderation is strongly advised during this peak season.
(//Wendy B. Terec, CMU On-the-Job Trainee)
References:
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Communities, D. H. (2015, September 21). 11 Reasons Why “Ber” Months Are Dear To Our Hearts. DMCI Homes Communities. Retrieved from https://communities.dmcihomes.com/reasons-love-ber-months/
Communities, D. H. (2017, October 10). Your Guide To The Ber Months In The Philippines. DMCI Homes Communities. Retrieved from https://communities.dmcihomes.com/guide-ber-months-philippines/
Lechon | Traditional Pork Dish From Philippines, Southeast Asia | TasteAtlas. (2016, January 13). Retrieved from https://www.tasteatlas.com/lechon
Is Lechon Healthy? (3 Tips for Weight Loss). (n.d.). Aspire Fitness. Retrieved from https://aspirefitnesswalnut.com/is-lechon-healthy-3-tips-for-weight-loss
Travel Guide. (2021, March 7). Lechon: Philippines' Favorite Delicacy. Philippines Guide. Retrieved from https://www.philippinesinsider.com/filipino-cuisine/lechon-philippines-favorite-delicacy/
