Health Authorities Recommend Avoiding Processed Foods and Fats

Dominican health authorities are urging the public to avoid processed foods and saturated fats, highlighting the risks of chronic illnesses. The Ministry of Public Health issued the recommendation around Latin American Nutritionist Day on August 11, emphasizing the importance of healthy habits.

The ministry stated that a balanced diet and regular exercise are crucial for preventing obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular conditions. Excessive intake of salt, saturated fats, and processed items can lead to weight gain, increasing the burden on the heart and blood vessels, and potentially causing high blood pressure.

Beyond diet, the ministry also pointed to sedentary lifestyles, alcohol and tobacco consumption, and chronic stress as negative health factors. To counter these, they advised a daily diet including vegetables, lean meats or protein sources, and complex carbohydrates. Adequate water intake, proper sleep, and mental health care were also stressed as essential components of a healthy lifestyle.