“

“It is time to end the confusion. ‘Food as Medicine’ presents the best current scientific evidence for physicians, nutritionists, and other health professionals who want to counsel patients and teach students.” Dr. Walter Willett, chairman of the Department of Nutrition at the Harvard School of Public Health and one of the leading researchers in the world in nutrition.

Today, the Philippines and the world are facing an epidemic of unprecedented magnitude: the sky-rocketing prevalence of CHRONIC DISEASES.

According to the WHO, chronic diseases are the major cause of death and disability worldwide. Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) account for 60 percent of total deaths globally (with 40 million deaths estimated occurring annually), and contribute to 40 percent of universal disease burden annually. It is projected that if no action is done in the present, these rates would increase to as high as 73 percent total deaths and a 60 percent disease burden respectively by 2020 (WHO, 2005).

The prevalence of NCD continues to rise in the Philippines, thus promoting a healthy lifestyle is very much needed and relevant as ever. More than half (58%) of total deaths in the country in 2003 were caused by NCDs. Vascular disease made up almost one-third (30.2%) of all deaths (Philippine Health Statistics, 2003).

The four major NCDs in the Philippines are cardiovascular diseases, cancers, chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases and diabetes mellitus. These diseases are linked by four most common preventable risk factors related to lifestyle, namely: tobacco use, unhealthy diet (synthetic, processed junk and fast foods), lack of physical activity and alcohol use.

The Philippines is one of the 23 selected countries that contribute to around 80% of the total mortality burden attributable to chronic diseases in developing countries, and 50% of the total disease burden caused by non-communicable diseases worldwide (Lancet, 2007). This is not surprising, since the data shows that 90% of Filipinos have one or more of the six prevalent risk factors to NCD; i.e., smoking, physical inactivity, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, overweight and obesity.

Chronic disease impacts not only the health of the individual and their families, but it has a broader impact on our communities and the economy. Preventing disease saves lives and money.
The Critical Role of Chronic Disease Prevention. By focusing on the most prevalent chronic diseases and addressing behaviors that contribute to these, we can make a profound impact on reducing the harm caused by chronic diseases.

1. With good health, children are in school more days and are better able to learn. Numerous studies have found that healthy diet and regular physical activity supports better learning.

2. With good health, adults are more productive and at work more days. Preventing disease increases productivity—asthma, high blood pressure, smoking and weight problem all reduce annual productivity.

3. With good health, older adults keep the golden years shining with health, happiness and peace of mind by maintaining mental and emotional health.

Increasing the focus on prevention in our communities will help improve the health of the Filipinos, quality of life and prosperity, and thus, a healthy and fit nation!

The Core Plan for Better Health and Wellness
The main goal is to increase the number of Filipinos who are healthy at every stage of life (from conception to resurrection). The strategy provides evidence-based recommendations that are fundamental to improving the nation’s health through the active engagement of all sectors of society to help achieve four broad strategic directions:

1.Create Healthy and Safe Community Environments: Better health does not just start from the doctor’s office. Prevention of disease starts in our home and communities.

2. Expand Quality Preventive Services in Both Clinical and Community Settings: I have volunteered with so many Barangays and underserved communities in the Philippines and other countries like India, Indonesia and Africa. When people receive information on preventive care, such as prenatal care, diabetes prevention programs and health screenings, they have better health and lower health care costs.

3. Empower People to Make Healthy Choices: Policies and programs can make healthy options the easy and affordable choice. When people have access to actionable and easy-to-understand information and resources, they are empowered to make healthier choices.

4. Train healthcare workforce: Almost half of deaths among Filipinos (47.6 percent) are unattended by a doctor or allied health provider. In my community, we have 1 midwife for 5 barangays. Generally, there are only 2.3 primary care providers in the country per 10,000 population. The number is a total of 0.2 physicians, 0.4 nurses and 1.7 midwives per 10,000 population. The World Health Organization recommends 24 healthcare workers for every 10,000 people just to address maternal and child health. (source: Philippine Coalition for Primary Care)

To help achieve these goals, these evidence-based recommendations will reduce the burden of leading causes of preventable death and major illness. Here are the seven priority areas . . .

1. Healthy Eating
2. Tobacco Free Living
3. Active Living
4. Reproductive and sexual health
5. Mental and emotional wellbeing
6. Preventing drug abuse and excessive
alcohol use
7. Injury and violence-free living

True health is more than just taking the right pharmaceutical, herbal or other prescription drugs. Let us seriously and actively participate in preventive wellness to remove the Philippines from contributing 80% of the total mortality burden attributable to chronic diseases in developing countries, and 50% of the total disease burden caused by non-communicable diseases worldwide.
Meanwhile, here is the Green Secret’s “Tropicana” juice to prevent chronic diseases. (Make sure to wash all ingredients well before juicing). It is a MUST to use organic ingredients only.

• 6 leaves Kale or Romaine Lettuce
• 1/4 bunch cilantro
• 1 1/2 cup fresh pineapple
• 3 calamansi (remove seeds and peel)

 

Juice all ingredients in your masticating juicer. Stir and enjoy the shot of long life!

Let us remember that a well-functioning digestive system is the foundation of optimum health, beauty and longevity. The next issue will cover the complete digestive cleanse and healing the inner tube of life. I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences on “Ask Dr. C at www.greensecret.com.ph” Our deepest gratitude to IAJ WELLNESS CORPORATION for making this information public. For more information or questions, email me at [email protected].

 

Christine E.V. Gonzalez is a doctor of naturopathic medicine and holds PhDs
in holistic nutrition and natural medicine. LLM (MS Environmental Laws & Labor)
©Wellness Institute International (632) 656-WELL (9355) • (046) 483-0115 (0917) 888-HEAL
• (0920) 958- HEAL (4325)