Achieve a Healthier Body and Soul this Lent

Researches support and confirm that certain diets could offer genuine health benefits. As we celebrate the start of Lent, let us look at the health benefits that comes with the different practices we have in observing Lenten traditions.

Fasting

The practice of refraining or limiting the consumption of food or drink for a period of time is observed during Lenten season. Ash Wednesday and Good Friday are obligatory days of fasting, but unknown to many, the digestion process has its disadvantages for the human health. According to the Harvard Medical School, the practice of fasting provides our body a rest from taking in toxins found in food and helps in significant weight loss if practiced properly.

Fasting has two common types. Regular, also called full fast, wherein only liquids are consumed, and partial fast, wherein consumption of solids is limited. The norm during this season is the partial fasting wherein an individual decreases food intake by eating one full meal or two smaller meals that are not equal to a full meal in a day.

A word of caution from doctors, if you consider fasting this Lent, make sure that you have no preexisting conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or high blood pressure, as fasting causes electrolyte abnormalities.

Abstinence from meat

Abstinence from eating meat such as beef, pork, and chicken is observed during Fridays and Saturdays of Lent. Instead, fish and vegetables are chosen as substitutes. Fish such as salmon and tuna, is a good source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids that promote heart health.

Research proves that eating 1-2 servings of fish per week could help cut the risk of dying from heart diseases by 36%. By cutting down the consumption of red meat and processed meat, the risk of taking in less-beneficial fats and high sodium meat is also lessened.

Another popular substitute for meat is egg. An egg contains vitamins A, B, and D and a little saturated fat, which is about 1.5 grams . Nutrients found in the egg such as lutein is good for the eyes and choline good for the brain and nerve health.

According to Harvard Medical school, consuming an egg a day is safe for people without preexisting conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure. When eating scrambled eggs or omelets, opt for healthier choices to add to your eggs such as spinach, tomatoes, and mushrooms. Always remember that the saturated fat in butter, cheese, bacon, sausage, and bread could raise your blood cholesterol much more than the cholesterol present in your eggs.

Other protein sources, such as fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts and seeds could lack one or more fatty acids, so maintaining a proper balance and variety of alternative sources of protein is recommended.

Lenten season is not only a perfect time to take care of our spiritual health, this is also a perfect opportunity to focus on our physical health. With a positive attitude towards sacrifice and devotion, a healthier body and healthier relationship with the Almighty is within reach.

Source: http://www.pchrd.dost.gov.ph/index.php/news/6339-achieve-a-healthier-body-and-soul-this-lent

Wyeth Nutrition Promotes Healthier Living With Promil® Organic

It’s no surprise that going organic may have multiple benefits that help us lead more healthy lives. Taking the more natural approach or ‘going green’ has even been proven to help conserve the environment and improve the lives of farmers. Indeed, the organic lifestyle is steadily increasing in popularity among more and more Filipinos. With the recent launch of an organic milk brand in the market, Filipino moms now have the option to provide their children with better nutrition that will help develop their minds and bodies.

Wyeth Nutrition debuts the new Promil® Organic in a fun-filled and informative launch at Palazzo Verde in Las Pinas, gathering moms, trade partners and subject-matter experts. The latest innovation from the leading nutrition firm is made from the best of nature and expertly designed to nurture children’s gifts. 

“Promil, moms’ trusted partner for the past 30 years, recognizes the growing needs of moms to provide a healthier foundation for their child through the organic lifestyle. We developed Promil® Organic to address the growing demand for organic products. It is made from 100% organic dairy milk from certified organic European farms,” says Theresa Chong, Marketing Director, Wyeth Philippines Inc.

Promil® Organic contains docosahexaeonic and arachidonic acid (DHA & AA) and is also a source of zinc and selenium to support brain and body development. It is the only organic formula milk expertly designed with these key nutrients.

According to surveys, the global organic food and beverage market is expected to reach USD 211.44 billion by 2020. More people are realizing the benefits of organic consumption and that they can still meet their daily dietary needs.

Proud moms Andi Manzano, Cat Ledesma, and Hindy Weber Tantoco hosted the event, sharing their own inspiring stories about motherhood to encourage parents to try an organic lifestyle. “We are proud to be joined by these women who pursue a healthy lifestyle,” says Patricia Cuna, Brand Manager for Promil® Organic. “They are dedicated mothers who only want the best for their children. We hope that their support could help us to inspire more parents to try a healthier lifestyle for their family, starting with Promil® Organic.”

Visit the Promil® Organic Pop-Up store starting February 3 in Trinoma Mall, near Activity Center and know more about Promil® Organic or visit www.lazada.com.ph/promil-official-store.

Note: Breastmilk is still best for babies up to two years of age. Promil® Organic is not a breastmilk substitute. Product is intended for preschoolers 3+.