DOH reminds public eating too much 'lechon' leads to heart attack

For most Filipino families, a Noche Buena will never be complete without the famous roast pig or 'lechon' heading the cast of favorite food served during feasts and special occasions.

However, the Department of Health warned the public that eating too much of 'lechon' will lead to heart attack.

"If one must eat lechon, he or she must bear in mind some important dietary reminders, which include eating less pork, using a small plate when eating, including vegetables in the diet, especially those rich in carbohydrates and protein and drinking lots of water," the DOH said.

La Loma, Quezon City, being the country's lechon capital has sold about 150 roast pigs so far, according to recent reports. A small lechon costs about P1,000, a large lechon about P12,000, while lechon sold per kilo costs P600.

Assistant health secretary Eric Tayag said in an radio interview that firecracker injuries are not the only health aspect the public should watch out for. Proper diet should also be given enough attention, he said.

Tayag said that those who are already overweight should be careful not to put on extra pounds because it can lead to all kinds of medical disorders, including heart diseases and diabetes. (PNA)