Bontoc scholar regional BNS finalist; awarded

By Alpine L. Killa- Malwagay

BONTOC, Mountain Province - A Barangay Nutrition Scholar here from Barangay Samoki, making a significant impact on health and well-being of her community is a regional outstanding BNS finalist.

    As an awardee, she received cash incentives and plaque of recognition during regional nutrition awarding ceremony held in Baguio City. 
    Eufemia Miranda received P8,000 cash incentive from the National Nutrition Council – Cordillera Administrative Region and additional P3,000 from the Dept. of Health Cordillera. 
    She received her award with Sangguniang Bayan member Julian Chumacog and midwife Pascuala Fantiyao who is also barangay nutrition action officer of Samoki. 
Miranda, a dedicated BNS served the barangay for 17 years and implemented health, nutrition programs and activities for constituents. 
    Write-up by NNC-CAR said Miranda had vision of achieving zero malnutrition in the community and implemented various strategies to address the issue.
    One of her notable initiatives, along with fellow BNS was conducting house-to-house visits, where she actively communicated with parents of children under five.
    During these visits, she cited importance of participating in regular weighing and height measurements to ensure the health and development of their children.
    She accompanied children to the clinic to ensure 100% participation.
    Recognizing the significance of proper nutrition, she collaborated with the Sangguniang Kabataan of Samoki to secure funding for a 120-day feeding program for underweight children from kinder to Grade III.
    This program not only focused on providing nutritious meals but aimed to improve nutritional status and boost energy levels of children in school. 
    In her efforts to combat malnutrition, Miranda promoted backyard gardening.
She actively coordinated with the Dept. of Environment and Natural Resources and the Dept. of Agriculture to provide seedlings to families with malnourished children, encouraging them to grow their nutritious fruits and vegetables. 
This Barangay Nutrition Scholar went beyond her official duties by taking the time to talk to mothers and discuss the importance of the first 100 days, a crucial period of a child’s development.
    She said education and support to parents during this critical phase can have a long-lasting positive impact.
 Miranda actively participated in community gatherings and volunteered to lead discussions on important health and nutrition topics, sharing her knowledge and inspiring others to prioritize the well-being of their families.
    Her dedication, passion and commitment, to achieving zero malnutrition is a testament to her genuine concern for the welfare of her community.
    Her exemplary work served as inspiration to others, showing the power of one’s efforts in creating a healthier and more nourished society. 
    For this community health worker, she credited this recognition to her family and the barangay nutrition committee for their support.

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Ilocos Norte salt makers told: Help control iodine deficiency

LAOAG CITY -- The Ilocos Norte government through its provincial nutrition office is urging local salt producers to comply with the national salt iodization program to control iodine deficiency disorders.
    Provincial nutritionist Elma Irapta said Tuesday that some salt makers in the province, particularly in Pasuquin town, were found to be not fully complying with Republic Act 8172 or the "Act on Salt Iodization Nationwide."
    Irapta said they have requested funding for the purchase of an iodine testing machine to regularly monitor if the prescribed iodine content being sold to consumers is properly observed.
    "Based on the latest survey conducted by the Bureau of Foods and Drugs Administration, it showed that the iodine content is lacking in salt products distributed to local consumers," she said in a phone interview.
    Reports said the salt products only contained 0.5 ppm of iodine content which is lower than the prescribed 30 ppm and above iodine content.
    Irapta said intensified salt testing and monitoring activities in sample households, markets, sari-sari (variety) stores and groceries will secure the nutritional well-being of consumers, particularly among children, pregnant and lactating women.
    In the salt-producing town of Pasuquin, for example, several salt manufacturers in the area admitted to customers that they were not mixing iodine into their salt products.
    "We don't mix iodine because some of our loyal buyers, particularly those who are producing bagoong (fish sauce) request for it," said one salt manufacturer from Davila village who requested anonymity.
    According to nutrition experts, the effectiveness of the salt iodization program lies in the iodine mixed with the salt given that it is the simplest, cheapest and most effective ingredient being used and consumed daily by people.
    To maximize its effectiveness, iodized salt is suggested for use in dipping and not much in cooking because the food's iodine content is lessened when cooked as it can easily evaporate.
    It is recommended that iodized salt should be placed in a nontransparent, dark container, and away from the heat so that the iodine will not dissolve.
    Iodine deficiency has been studied to be the cause of stunted growth and mental retardation among children; miscarriage or birth of babies with abnormalities in pregnant women; deaf mutism; and goiter. -- PNA

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‘New normal’ Nutrition Month events up folks’ health awareness

By Rachel B. Cobcobo

BAGUIO CITY--The Cordillera Center for Health and Development called for unity among Filipinos to improve nutrition in the country during launching of the 35th Nutrition Month celebration on July 5 here at Plaza Lodge, South Drive. 
    Themed “New Normal Na Nutrisyon, Sama-samang Gawan ng Solusyon!” the program opened with a motorcade from Session Road to South Drive to raise awareness among the public about the month-long celebration. 
    In the official publication of the National Nutrition Council (NNC), the celebration aimed to call for collective action from sectors of society to take part in building resilience as the country transitions to adapting living conditions with the Covid-19 virus. 
    These actions include policy-making, cascading and promoting advocacies of government agencies and the private sector and improvement of home food production during the pandemic, all of which may result in preventing spread of viruses.
    Dr. Amelita Pangilinan, Assistant Director of the Dept. of Health-Cordillera Administrative Region said, “Good health and good nutrition must not be taken for granted”. 
    “Not even Covid-19 can stop us from taking steps towards addressing malnutrition in our country. As guided by the Philippine Plan of Action for Nutrition, we should always be active in seeking solutions in the performance of our mandate to educate everyone about the importance of a healthy diet to overall wellness,” Pangilinan said.
She added the DOH recently issued administrative order 21-0039 which aims to rid the country of “trans-fat” by 2023.
    Pangilinan added high intake of this “worst type of fat” contributes to cardiovascular diseases.
    DOH Central Office personnel, particularly from the Health Promotion Bureau joined the opening program to end their HPBisita activity in the region where Norma Thea Madeline Conjares shared an overview of the HPB programs. 
    Meanwhile, Patrick Pineda, Health Education and Promotion Officer III, CHD-CAR earlier invited the public to participate in the activities of the DOH-CHD-CAR and NNC – CAR “Move more, Eat Right para sa isang Healthy Cordillera” program. 
    Activities held were virtual Nutrition Month Webinar Series in Abra, Blended Education on Nutrition Education and Nutrition Month Quiz through radio broadcast and Nutrition Month Caravan held yesterday.
    The Cordillera Nutrisong Contest 2022 which started July 4 will end on the 29th.
    Events for this week (July 25 to 28) are the virtual Tiktok Video Nutri Challenge and more activities from July 26 to 27by CHD-CAR in Baguio City.
    A “Kapihan” forum was held earlier with Dr. Pangilinan, Norma Thea Madeline Conjares of DOH – HPB; Bella Basalong, NNC-CAR; Candice Salingbay, CHD-CAR, DA-CAR; Charles Picpican, DA-CAR; and Joel Junsay, HSO-Baguio City.
    The program culminated with food presentation demo by Johanna Bacog and Rose Ann Teodore from the Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics department of the Benguet State University.

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Bontoc gets reg’l nutrition award, NNC citation

By Alpine L. Killa

BONTOC, Mountain Province – Bontoc received a certificate of commendation and token from the National Nutrition Council as one of 2020 regional nutrition awardees.
    In behalf of Mayor Franklin C. Odsey who chairs the Municipal Nutrition Council, Municipal Nutrition Action Officer Venous Faith Cofulan of the Municipal Health Office received the award during the Virtual 2020 Regional Nutrition Awarding Ceremony on Oct. 20.
    Bontoc is one of the only 25 local government units in Cordillera with below 10% stunting prevalence in 2019.
    Other local government awardees in Mountain Province with below 10% stunting prevalence in 2019 were municipalities of Natonin and Tadian
    Cofulan said the award was based on effectiveness in implementation of nutrition programs of the Bontoc LGU through the MNC. 
    For this year, it focused on result of Operation Timbang Plus conducted on children ages 0-59 months in 16 barangays of Bontoc in 2019.
    She added among nutrition programs conducted by the Bontoc LGU were regular OPT and OPT validation, Search for the Healthiest Mother and Baby, and the Chagsen Challenge (Search for Biggest Loser). 
    The Chagsen Challenge is a newly conceptualized lifestyle program of the Bontoc government which aimed to promote health and wellness among the employees of the municipal government and the public.
    The program aimed to make the public lose weight through natural means of proper food intake and regular exercise.
    The activity was proposed by Sangguniang Bayan member Jerome Tudlong, Jr. who chairs the committee on health and sanitation in collaboration with the Municipal Health Office.   
    For year 2020, some of the programs of the Bontoc LGU relative to nutrition were regular conduct of OPT Plus and OPT validation, Search for the Best Performing Barangay Nutrition Council, Search for the Healthiest Places covering barangays, and elementary and secondary schools, giving of vegetable seedlings to parents of malnourished children for their backyard gardening, free - range chicks to 18 parents of malnourished children, and Chagsen Challenge –Team Edition.
    The other lined-up activities for this year that were not implemented due to Covid-19 were Search for the Healthiest Mother and Baby, Search for Best Gulayan sa Paaralan (elementary and secondary schools), Search for Healthiest Under-Five in Terms of Height, and Weekly Zumba.
 
 

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Ifugao nutrition winners known

HINGYON, Ifugao -- Awarding of winners in the different searches   highlighted culmination of Nutrition Month celebration in the province.

The town of Asipulo bagged the Quality Nutrition Implementation Award (QUIA) with cash prize of P12, 000. Hungduan and Tinoc landed second and third place with prizes of P10, 000 and P8, 000, respectively.

For the search for Most Outstanding Barangays Nutrition Scholar, Maribel Bu-ucan of Poblacion East, Lamut was declared winner.  Juliva Gina and Novelyn Gabatin were second and third placers, respectively.

In the search for Outstanding Barangay Nutrition Committee, Barangay Bangar in Alfonso Lista got first place followed by Bangbang, Hungduan and Pugol, Lamut.

The municipality of Tinoc topped the Nutri-jingle contest. Second placer was Kiangan and Lagawe was third.

Winners in the different searches received prizes.

The annual searches are among the initiatives of the provincial government to enhance the activeness of different municipal nutrition councils and barangay nutrition committees in their effort to help address the health needs of their respective communities.
 Governor Jerry Dalipog, the Provincial Nutrition Council chairman, reiterated that health and nutrition are among the priority programs under his administration. -- PIA Ifugao

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Capabilities of ‘vintage old’ cited in Nutrition Month

By Julie G. Fianza

BAGUIO CITY – Individuals 80 years and above or those classified as “vintage old;” are capable of performing simple daily exercises and activities as to their capabilities, it was noted during the media Kapihan last Thursday.

The Kapihan was done after the joint regional and city launching program of the Nutrition month and “10,000 steps for 100 years-Lakad sa Kalusugan, Tungo sa Kaunlaran, Gawin natin ‘to,”at the Baguio Athletic Bowl, coordinated by the City Health Services Office and National Nutrition Council (NNC)-CAR.

Present during the Kapihan were Regional Nutrition Program Coordinator Rita Papey, Saint Louis University (SLU) Associate Dean, School of Teacher Education and Liberal Arts Teresita Ignacio, Department of Health Nutritionist-Dietician Candice Salingbay, Lifestyle and Obesity Medicine Specialist Physician Jan Paolo Dipasupil, Department of Education ND Michelle Andaya and HR specialist Rex Bate of the Civil Service Commission (CSC).

                Individuals 80 years old and above may accumulate at least 30 minutes of daily physical activity of assisted walking and stair climbing, folding clothes, dusting furniture, sweeping inside the house, 20 minutes of light exercise at least thrice a week and mild calisthenics at least 10 to 15 minutes on non-consecutive days. Slow dancing and mild aquatic, all assisted, may be done by octogenarians, it was known.

Those 70-79 years or middle old could walk actively, do mild, easy household task and light gardening, light intensity or leisurely walk around the neighborhood, and assisted activities such as stationary biking, calisthenics or swimming for 30 minutes three times weekly. Active and apparently healthy people with no risk factors could do moderate aerobic activity, social dancing and swimming on non-consecutive days three times a week.

Young olds or those at the 60 to 69 yr-old bracket may accumulate at least 30 min physical activity of any or a combination of active walking, stair climbing, household and yard chores. Dancing, biking, calisthenics, swimming, rowing may be done continuously for a minimum of 30 minutes or longer. Gentle stretches may be done. Employed individuals at this age should have opportunities to be active at work with two-minute physical activities such as walking, stair climbing, stretching for every hour of sitting is highly encouraged.

Older adults, 46 to 59 years old and those 21 to 45 years of age may accumulate at least 30 to 60 minutes physical activity. Active people with no risk factors may go through rigorous intensity aerobic activities. A doctor’s advice however should be sought.

Children without medical risks should undergo at least 60 minutes daily of active daily tasks in the home with exercise, dance or sports and high impact play should also be incorporated in the daily activities. Considered as high impact play are indigenous sports such as luksong tinik,patintero, tumbang preso, agawang base, with walking, stair climbing, and playground activities are recommended.

These guidelines were developed by the Department of Health (DOH) and recommended by experts in 2010

Accordingly, physical activity is the bodily movement introduced by skeletal muscles that require energy expenditure while exercise is planned, structured, repetitive and purposive to improve or maintain one or more components of physical fitness.

Physical activity is beneficial as it prevents or delays non-communicable disease, weight loss or maintenance, muscle and bone strength, improved mental health, better sleep, and promotes over-all well-being. Sports can help reduce infant, child and maternal mortality, and improve post-natal recovery for mothers, it was pointed out by authorities.

Physical inactivity increases the risk of adverse health conditions such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, breast and colon cancers, can add to feelings of anxiety and depression and is linked to shortened life expectancy.

Hindrances to physical activities which can be properly addressed are lack of time, inconvenience, no motivation, boredom, fear of cost, lack of confidence, fear of injury, lack of support from family or friends, lack of commitment. Environmental hindrances include: inaccessibility of parks, sidewalks, or exercise facilities, lack of unsuitable programs, crime or violence, pollution and lack of community spirit.

Said latest data is from the Food and Nutrition Research Institute-Department of Science and Technology (FNRI-DOST).

The theme for this year’s celebration is “Kumain ng Wasto at Maging Aktibo, Push Natin ‘to!

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Monitoring Cordillera nutrition status

BONTOC, Mountain Province --The National Nutrition Council (NNC) and the Regional Nutrition Evaluation Team (RNET) in the region are conducting   nutrition monitoring and evaluation using new evaluation tool dubbed “monitoring and evaluation of local level plan implementation protocol (MELLPI-Pro).

Nutrition Officer III Bella Basalong of NNC led the 5-member team here for the third leg of the activity.

The previous years, Mt. Province was not evaluated due to absence of nutrition action plan, but with the MELLPI  evaluation may proceed with or without a NAP, Basalong said.

MELLPI Pro, Balisong said,  is a protocol that includes procedures and tools; promotive since it promotes awareness and observance to existing laws, rules and guidelines; progressive as scoring is based on desired progress of local government  units in terms of nutrition program implementation and Professional because it promotes professional and objective review of evidences.

First part of the evaluation is a desk review of accomplishment reports, nutrition action plans, and other pertinent documents. 

The group then presents to members of the nutrition committee their findings and recommendations.

Part of the new tool is an overall visual presentation of the results of evaluation through a spider web diagram wherein it automatically provides the result of the evaluation, she added.  In every corner of the web are five dimensions namely vision and mission, nutrition laws and policies, governance and organizational structure, local nutrition committee management functions and nutrition interventions/services. 

These are the aspects the evaluators are looking at.

Initial result of evaluation showed that in terms of implementation of nutrition programs, Mountain Province did good as shown in the web diagram. 

For the things to improve, the province needs to develop a nutrition in emergencies plan which will be integrated to the local nutrition action plan, and local disaster risk reduction management plan.

The RNET recommended for the committee to come up with a 3-year plan for nutrition and to be updated annually.

              The RNET cited full support of nutrition committee members headed by Provincial Administrator Amador Batay-an for their active involvement and notable nutrition program implementation.

The group also visited the Nutriskwela Community Radyo Kataguan in Bauko.

            The Nutriskwela Community Radyo is an NNC project which involves setting up non-profit, non-partisan community radio stations and training of broadcast personnel in areas with high malnutrition prevalence and which do not have easy access to broadcast media.

An M& E activity was conducted in Apayao last May 7 and Kalinga in May 23. 

For June, the team will proceed to Abra and Benguet. The City of Baguio was already evaluated by the National Evaluation Team.

In conjunction with the MELLPI, the RNET also evaluates the performance of the barangay nutrition scholars. -- JDP/MAWC - PIA CAR

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Monitoring Cordillera nutrition status

BONTOC, Mountain Province --The National Nutrition Council (NNC) and the Regional Nutrition Evaluation Team (RNET) in the region are conducting   nutrition monitoring and evaluation using new evaluation tool dubbed “monitoring and evaluation of local level plan implementation protocol (MELLPI-Pro).

Nutrition Officer III Bella Basalong of NNC led the 5-member team here for the third leg of the activity.

The previous years, Mt. Province was not evaluated due to  absence of nutrition action plan, but with the MELLPI  evaluation may proceed with or without a NAP, Basalong said.

MELLPI Pro, Balisong said,  is a protocol that includes procedures and tools; promotive since it promotes awareness and observance to existing laws, rules and guidelines; progressive as scoring is based on desired progress of local government  units in terms of nutrition program implementation and Professional because it promotes professional and objective review of evidences.

First part of the evaluation is a desk review of accomplishment reports, nutrition action plans, and other pertinent documents. 

The group then presents to members of the nutrition committee their findings and recommendations.

Part of the new tool is an overall visual presentation of the results of evaluation through a spider web diagram wherein it automatically provides the result of the evaluation, she added.  In every corner of the web are five dimensions namely vision and mission, nutrition laws and policies, governance and organizational structure, local nutrition committee management functions and nutrition interventions/services. 

These are the aspects the evaluators are looking at.

Initial result of evaluation showed that in terms of implementation of nutrition programs, Mountain Province did good as shown in the web diagram. 

For the things to improve, the province needs to develop a nutrition in emergencies plan which will be integrated to the local nutrition action plan, and local disaster risk reduction management plan.

The RNET recommended for the committee to come up with a 3-year plan for nutrition and to be updated annually.

The RNET cited full support of nutrition committee members headed by Provincial Administrator Amador Batay-an for their active involvement and notable nutrition program implementation.

The group also visited the Nutriskwela Community Radyo Kataguan in Bauko.

The Nutriskwela Community Radyo is an NNC project which involves setting up non-profit, non-partisan community radio stations and training of broadcast personnel in areas with high malnutrition prevalence and which do not have easy access to broadcast media.

An M& E activity was conducted in Apayao last May 7 and Kalinga in May 23. 

For June, the team will proceed to Abra and Benguet. The City of Baguio was already evaluated by the National Evaluation Team.

In conjunction with the MELLPI, the RNET also evaluates the performance of the barangay nutrition scholars. -- JDP/MAWC - PIA CAR

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NNC honors Cordi nutrition ‘champions’ in Baguio rites

BAGUIO CITY--The National Nutrition Council (NNC) in the region recognized the nutrition champions during the 2018 Regional Nutrition Awarding Ceremony held Oct. 4 at the Supreme Hotel here.

They are the Outstanding Local Government Units and Barangay Nutrition Scholars that have efficiently and effectively implemented local nutrition programs that lead to healthier infants, young children, and mothers in their respective communities.

The City of Baguio and the municipality of Alfonso Lista in Ifugao were cited for their exemplary implementation of nutrition programs that resulted in the significant reduction of malnutrition and undernutrition cases in their areas.

Alfonso Lista was recognized for being a recipient of the Nutrition Honor Award (NHA) for having been a Consistent Regional Outstanding Winner on Nutrition for six consecutive years.

Baguio City, on the other hand, was awarded the 2nd year Consistent Regional Outstanding Winner in Nutrition (CROWN) Maintenance and will vie for NHA next year.

The regional most outstanding implementer on nutrition, provincial level was conferred to the Province of Benguet while Tublay was conferred the CROWN award and region’s most outstanding implementer on nutrition in the municipal level.

Cited as the provincial most outstanding implementer on nutrition, municipal level green banner awardees are Tublay for Benguet; municipality of Hungduan for Ifugao, municipality of Balbalan for Kalinga,  and the municipality ofSagada for Mountain  Province.

Meanwhile, Imelda Dela Cruz-Dagupon of Barangay Imelda Village in Baguio City bagged the most coveted Regional Outstanding Barangay Nutrition Scholar (ROBNS) for garnering the highest rating among the BNS in the region in the evaluation conducted by the Regional Nutrition Evaluation Team.

Finalists include Florita Agulin of Barangay Gawaan, Balbalan, Kalinga; Divina S. Guilanda, Barangay Sagpat in Kibungan, Benguet; Guillerma D. Wagsingan of Barangay Tuga, Tabuk City and Maribel M. Bu-ucan of Barangay Poblacion East, Lamut, Ifugao.

Special awards were also given to LGUs with consistent decrease in the stunting prevalence among 0-59 months pre-school children from 2015 to 2017 and LGUs with less than 10% stunting prevalence among 0-59 months pre-school children in 2017, and best Barangay Nutrition Committee based on a search conducted by the province or city.

Retired nutrition action officer and district nutrition program coordinators were also recognized during the regional awarding. -- PIA CAR

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Gov't nutritionists warn public against unhealthy ‘fad diets'

By Pamela Mariz Geminiano

BAGUIO CITY -- The National Nutrition Council in Cordillera has warned city residents against fad diets that promise fast and easy results as these may have negative effects on the body. 

“The most common fad diet trends worldwide include the Ketogenic diet, intermittent fasting, Atkins diet, blood type diet and many more," NNC-CAR dietician Bella Basalong said Tuesday.

Basalong cited the USA Center for Disease Control and Prevention's definition of "fad diet" as a weight loss plan that promises quick results with short-term change in nutrition needs.

"One way to spot a fad diet is if it promises rapid weight loss in a short period of time, which sounds too good to be true.

Food choices in the diet are limited to certain food or food groups, which can be difficult to sustain,” she explained.

Basalong warned that such diets promise weight loss without exercise and sound “scientific,” but are actually not supported by studies.

"Fad diets have negative drawbacks, which include occurrence of malnutrition due to certain mineral or vitamin deficiencies. It can lead to dehydration, getting tired quickly due to limited calories, and alters metabolism, which can cause serious diarrhea or constipation. It also affects emotional health due to frustration on achieving the desired weight loss," she said out.

Basalong said fad diets that introduce high fat can also lead to cardiovascular diseases, adding that fad diet pills and supplements might also contain ingredients that are harmful to the body.

High protein fad diets, according to her, affect the organs of the body such as kidney.

She said the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, as well as other nutritionist and dietitians, do not promote the practice of fad diets due to their effects on the body.

"The most successful weight management is a lifelong process, which includes healthy eating, regular physical exercise, and behavior change,” the city nutritionist said.

Meanwhile, NNC Cordillera Coordinator Rita Papey said in a separate interview that obesity is a problem in Cordillera, as the region has the fifth highest rate of obesity in the country.

Papey said that obesity, or over-nutrition, is also a form of malnutrition, signifying imbalances in the person's intake of energy and nutrients that lead to diet-related non-communicable diseases.

Jumping on the bandwagon of popular diet fads can also be a gateway to eating disorder habits and behavior, Papey warned.

Many of these trendy diets, she said, are not only ineffective but also dangerous to one’s physical health.

In a world that dwells so much on physical attributes, people will always have to live with the society's standards, the nutritionists noted, adding that in today's generation, where social media is accessible, there is a strong emphasis on idealized beauty on platforms, such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and even magazines and television.

Guian, a gym enthusiast who requested to be identified just with his first name, said body shaming is not an encouragement, but a judgmental health advice.

He said celebrities and models seen on social media with “perfect bodies” often make people critical of themselves and experiences the pressure of living up to society's unrealistic standards.

Guian said body shaming has become a serious societal issue.

Body shaming is defined as inappropriate, negative statements and attitudes toward another person’s weight or size.

Guian said the social stigma of obesity has created negative psycho-social impairments that lead to psychological and health issues.

"It has the power to make someone feel unlovable," he said. "It causes so many insecurities that they can’t even love themselves let alone expect someone else to love them. This is something individuals should not inflict on anyone. Living in the 21st century, everyone should be accepting of all body types. Encouraging each other to understand that our bodies are different,  beautiful whether we are thick, thin, curvy, or not flawless. We were created to be different, and we need to learn to love those differences." -- PNA

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Gov't nutritionists warn public against unhealthy ‘fad diets'

By Pamela Mariz Geminiano

BAGUIO CITY -- The National Nutrition Council in Cordillera has warned city residents against fad diets that promise fast and easy results as these may have negative effects on the body. 

“The most common fad diet trends worldwide include the Ketogenic diet, intermittent fasting, Atkins diet, blood type diet and many more," NNC-CAR dietician Bella Basalong said Tuesday.

Basalong cited the USA Center for Disease Control and Prevention's definition of "fad diet" as a weight loss plan that promises quick results with short-term change in nutrition needs.

"One way to spot a fad diet is if it promises rapid weight loss in a short period of time, which sounds too good to be true.

Food choices in the diet are limited to certain food or food groups, which can be difficult to sustain,” she explained.

Basalong warned that such diets promise weight loss without exercise and sound “scientific,” but are actually not supported by studies.

"Fad diets have negative drawbacks, which include occurrence of malnutrition due to certain mineral or vitamin deficiencies. It can lead to dehydration, getting tired quickly due to limited calories, and alters metabolism, which can cause serious diarrhea or constipation. It also affects emotional health due to frustration on achieving the desired weight loss," she said out.

Basalong said fad diets that introduce high fat can also lead to cardiovascular diseases, adding that fad diet pills and supplements might also contain ingredients that are harmful to the body.

High protein fad diets, according to her, affect the organs of the body such as kidney.

She said the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, as well as other nutritionist and dietitians, do not promote the practice of fad diets due to their effects on the body.

"The most successful weight management is a lifelong process, which includes healthy eating, regular physical exercise, and behavior change,” the city nutritionist said.

Meanwhile, NNC Cordillera Coordinator Rita Papey said in a separate interview that obesity is a problem in Cordillera, as the region has the fifth highest rate of obesity in the country.

Papey said that obesity, or over-nutrition, is also a form of malnutrition, signifying imbalances in the person's intake of energy and nutrients that lead to diet-related non-communicable diseases.

Jumping on the bandwagon of popular diet fads can also be a gateway to eating disorder habits and behavior, Papey warned.

Many of these trendy diets, she said, are not only ineffective but also dangerous to one’s physical health.

In a world that dwells so much on physical attributes, people will always have to live with the society's standards, the nutritionists noted, adding that in today's generation, where social media is accessible, there is a strong emphasis on idealized beauty on platforms, such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and even magazines and television.

Guian, a gym enthusiast who requested to be identified just with his first name, said body shaming is not an encouragement, but a judgmental health advice.

He said celebrities and models seen on social media with “perfect bodies” often make people critical of themselves and experiences the pressure of living up to society's unrealistic standards.

Guian said body shaming has become a serious societal issue.

Body shaming is defined as inappropriate, negative statements and attitudes toward another person’s weight or size.

Guian said the social stigma of obesity has created negative psycho-social impairments that lead to psychological and health issues.

"It has the power to make someone feel unlovable," he said. "It causes so many insecurities that they can’t even love themselves let alone expect someone else to love them. This is something individuals should not inflict on anyone. Living in the 21st century, everyone should be accepting of all body types. Encouraging each other to understand that our bodies are different,  beautiful whether we are thick, thin, curvy, or not flawless. We were created to be different, and we need to learn to love those differences." -- PNA

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Cordillera nutrition program winners bared

BAGUIO CITY - - The regional nutrition evaluation team has come out with list of   outstanding performers in the field of nutrition program management in the region.

The list is based on the results of monitoring and evaluation of local level plan implementation and the 2017 Search for the Regional Outstanding Barangay Nutrition Scholar (ROBNS) conducted by the RNET.

Candice Willy of the   Dept. of Health and RNETo Cordillera Administrative Region chairperson, said although   still for validation by National Nutrition Evaluation Team,   this year’s “green banner” awardee for provincial level was Benguet and  GBA in the municipal level was Tublay, in Benguet.    

There was no winner for the GBA for city level because Tabuk City was not able to meet the cut-off score of 85 while Baguio City was being evaluated by the NNET.

Topping the 2017 regional outstanding barangay nutrition scholar was Imelda Dagupon of Barangay, Imelda Village in Baguio City followed by Divina Guilanda of Barangay Sagpat, Kibungan, Benguet.  

At third was Maribel Bu-ucan of Poblacion East, Lamut, Ifugao.

Fourth was  Florita Agulin of Barangay Bawaan in Balbalan, Kalinga while fifth was Guillerma Wagsingan of Barangay Tuga, in Tabuk City.

Willy said there were no contenders from other provinces since they failed to meet  requirements.

The MELLPI is being done annually to monitor and evaluate the performance of LGUs in the management of their nutrition program including its impact on target groups.

Awards and recognition aim not just to recognize outstanding LGUs in terms of nutrition but also for them to serve as guide and inspiration to others   in helping alleviate malnutrition in the region. -- PIA CAR

 

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NNC urges public: Avoid diseases, have healthy diet

BAGUIO CITY -- The National Nutrition Council in the region urged everyone to focus on healthy diet to control overweight and obesity across all ages in line with this year’s celebration of Nutrition Month.

Regional Nutrition program coordination Rita Papey said there is an increasing prevalence of overweight and obesity not only in the Cordillera region but nationwide.

 The increasing incidence of non-communicable diseases or lifestyle related diseases is one of health concerns primarily related to unhealthy diet, she said.

Nutrition Officer Bella Basalong said an unhealthy diet is composed of foods that are energy-dense yet nutrient poor and are high in saturated fats, trans fats, refined carbohydrates or sodium.

A diet low in fruits and vegetables or fiber is also characteristic of an unhealthy diet.

Unhealthy diet leads to poor nutrition and is one of the major risk factors for a range of chronic diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, certain cancers, diabetes and other conditions linked to obesity, she added.

Basalong said in line with this year’s Nutrition Month celebration, NutriWalk is set  on the 4th week of July.

NNC also intends   to conduct a wellness in the workplace workout for selected regional Nutrition Committee members. Local  government units and schools in the region will conduct their own   activities.  

Meanwhile, in schools, Department of Education regional public affairs chief Georaloy  Palao-ay said the DepEd  has issued department order No. 13 series of 2017 policy and guidelines on healthy food and Beverage Choices in schools and DepEd offices.

This policy aims to make available healthier food and beverage choices among the learners and DepEd personnel and their stakeholders; provide guidance in evaluating and categorizing foods and drinks and provide guidance in the selling and marketing of foods and beverages in schools.

 This, as NNC also urged the public to check the National Guidelines for Filipinos (NGF), Pinggang Pinoy and Nutritional Guide Pyramid to get a list of what to eat to become healthy through their website www.nnc.gov.ph.

The 2017 Nutrition Month theme is “Healthy diet, gawing habit - FOR LIFE!” -- PIA-CAR

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NNC pushes healthy lifestyle on occasion of Nutrition Month

BAGUIO CITY – National Nutrition Council Cordillera director Rita Papey urged regional constituents to focus on their health through proper nutrition, diet, exercise and avoid  harmful vices like smoking, drinking alcoholic drinks and doing illegal drugs.

On occasion of Nutrition Month Papey told a press conference at the Philippine Information Agency grounds here Thursday NNC objectives this year include increasing awareness on importance of healthy diets, help the public distinguish between healthy and unhealthy foods, encourage the food industry including farmers, manufacturers, distributors and food establishments to produce healthy foods.

Another program, Papey said, is advocacy for enactment of national and local laws for healthy diets. Nutrition Month is themed this year: “Healthy diet, gawing habit for life!”

 With the theme “Healthy diet, gawing habit for life!” the celebration aims to contribute to the reduction of overweight, obesity and non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes, heart disease, stroke and cancer. On the other hand, poor nutrition as a consequence of unhealthy diet can lead to reduced immunity, increased susceptibility to disease, impaired physical and mental development, and reduced productivity.

Based on the 2008 National Nutrition Survey and  2013 National Nutrition Survey Facts and Figures of the Food and Nutrition Research Institute of the Department of Science and Technology,  vegetable intake was noted to be on a decreasing trend, but slightly increased from 110 grams in 2008 to 114 grams in 2013.

Fruit intake was observed to be on a declining trend with notable decrease of 13 percentage points from the 54 grams intake in 2008.

Compared with 2008 food consumption data, there was a lower intake of rice, fish, fruits, sugar and syrup and tubers while a higher intake of vegetables, eggs, poultry, meat and its products, milk and its products was recorded in 2013. There was a lower intake of rice and fish while vegetable was higher. Increases were also noted in the intake of milk, eggs, meat and poultry in 2013.

Daily Nutritional Guide Pyramid for Filipinos is a pictorial guide educating consumers on the proper amounts of servings to be consumed per day, emphasizing on the principle of eating a variety of foods.

This guide shows foods to be eaten the most to the foods to be eaten the least, starting from the base of the pyramid to its peak. The peak of the pyramid includes fats, oils, sugar and sweets, which should be eaten least. The second layer includes sources of protein such as fish, meats, poultry milk and cheese. The third layer of the pyramid includes fruits and vegetables. The fourth layer comprises food to be consumed in bulk, including rice and other sources of carbohydrates such as corn, root crops, noodles and bread. Water and advises on healthy lifestyle are added below the fourth layer in order to emphasize their importance as well. Several guides were made for different age groups and life stage, namely toddlers, kids (7-12 years old), teens, (13-19 years old), adults (20-39 years old), elderly, pregnant and lactating.

Aside from the kapihan, activities to be conducted in line Nutrition Month are Nutri-Walk on the 3rd week of July and a nutrition assessment for Regional Nutrition Committee member- employees.

In line with this, the Nutritionist-Dietitians’ Association of the Philippines – Baguio Benguet Chapter earlier conducted  a  nutrition seminar  last June 8 at the Benguet State University gym in La Trinidad, Benguet  to provide  updates on food, nutrition and dietetics.

The seminar brought together   456 health professionals, health and nutrition workers, barangay officials and nutrition students from North to Central Luzon and some attendees from Manila and Cavite.

Papey discussed innovative ways of celebrating Nutrition Month.

Bella Basalong of the  National Nutrition Council – Cordillera and NDAP-BBC  vice president,   discussed healthy diet as one which includes varied kinds of food and observing the principles of balance and moderation as depicted in the Food Pyramid and Pinggang Pinoy.  

Frances Isabelle Jacalan, Science Research Specialist of the FNRI-DOST,  introduced the influence of genes on susceptibility to diet (genetics) and influence of diet on gene transcription (nutrigenomics) with the long term goal of providing personalized nutrition for the maintenance of individual health and prevention of diet-related diseases.

Donabelle Navarette of St. Luke’s Medical Center in Quezon City, meanwhile, presented trends on foods, nutrition and dietetics particularly on nutrition support guidelines, protein requirements,  and new innovative nutrition products including fiber supplements.  

Strategic meal planning applications of nutrition concepts to provide fuel for activity, enhance sport performance and promote recovery from exercise were shared by Jeaneth Aro, Nutrition Coach of Nutrifit Phils. She said   food and drugs interact and may affect the intake, absorption and metabolism of the other.

Dr. Romeo Gomez presented the links between the worsening global warming, climate change and environment and their impacts on food and nutrition security.

Dr. Ryan Guinaran’s exhaustive non-traditional discussion of leadership wherever you are and whatever role you assume in life capped the day’s learning sessions.

The activity was co-hosted by the BSU and NNC – CAR.

The NDAP-BBC will continue to hold seminars and other fora not only for its members but also among other nutrition stakeholders while enhancing partnerships with other nongovernment organizations and  government offices. It also conducts assessment of nutritional status, lectures and diet counseling among others. 

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Cordillera NNC head to execs: Improve nutrition programs

BAGUIO CITY -- Rita D.Papey, regional program coordinator of National Nutrition Council in the Cordillera urged regional officials here last week to improve their nutrition programs during “newly elected officials program.”   

“Nutrition program does not belong to a single agency but a concern of all branches of government and that the support of the mayors is a crucial to its success,” she said.

The program was headed by the regional Dept. of Interior and Local Government in the region, along with regional line agency directors who were invited to introduce their programs and services.

Papey urged LGU heads to prioritize the improvement of their LGU’s nutritional status, starting with eradicating malnutrition among children in their respective areas.

Papey talked on “basic orientation on legal mandates on nutrition” that serves as the basis of all nutrition programs from the national to LGUs.

Presidential Decree 491 series 1974 issued then by President Ferdinand E. Marcos outlined the government structure that will address malnutrition in the country

Papey said based on studies and observations from government and private sectors, the setback in addressing malnutrition in the country is attributed to absence of strong structure that will govern effective implementation of nutrition programs.

She also talked on “sustainable development goals (SDG) for nutrition targets until 2025.

Under the SDG, countries have to end all forms of malnutrition by scaling up proven nutrition interventions and by committing and investing in nutrition, thus the support of the LCE’s is vital in achieving the goals.

The National Nutrition Council (NNC) formulates national food and nutrition policies and strategies; and coordinates planning, monitoring, and evaluation of the national nutrition program.

But these can be only effective with the full support of the local officials, she said.

The NEO program is initiative of the department through the Local Government Academy (LGA) to come up with a harmonized capacity development delivery for LGUs. 

The objective is to create development-oriented NEOs who can effectively 

implement nutrition programs.

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