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The holidays are officially here, and that means: get-togethers, carols, and (the best of all!) the lovingly-cooked food! Who can resist a feast of hamonado, spaghetti, shanghai, and buko salad served at the table? It truly is the merriest time of the year! But let’s make it extra special by also taking care of each other’s well-being.

In 2024, the Department of Health (DOH) was on the lookout for several non-communicable diseases (NCDs) that often spike during the holidays, like stroke, holiday heart syndrome, and bronchial asthma. True enough, within a week (December 23 to 30), there was a significant spike in cases. Yelp! What you want to spike during this season is happiness, and maybe your height, but not these NCD cases.

So, we have some handy tips on how to achieve that, which you can also share with your loved ones.

A heart-y celebration!

Overconsuming fatty, salty, or sweet food can spike blood pressure and sugar, risky for those with hypertension or diabetes. Too much alcohol can also trigger “holiday heart syndrome” (irregular heartbeat). Limit rich foods and alcohol (like a third serving of sisig or fifth beer). Moderate eating and a daily 30-minute exercise can prevent/manage hypertension, diabetes, and holiday heart syndrome.

Laugh your lungs and belly out

Fireworks and indigestion are common holiday issues. Smoke from fireworks poses a risk for asthmatics. Meanwhile, buffets can lead to overeating. Use noisemakers like party horns or music instead of fireworks, or wear a mask for protection. For food, take small amounts of the dishes you want to try, and stop eating when full.

Get the right healthcare

Prioritizing preventive health this season is not only a smart decision, it’s also easy. Maxicare PRIMA is an excellent starting point, offering streamlined access to healthcare. With PRIMA Consult, Access, and Elite plans, you receive unlimited consultations and enjoy access to laboratory tests and imaging procedures – starting at only ₱999 / year. For those managing chronic conditions like hypertension or diabetes, Maxicare provides dedicated management packages: PRIMA for Hypertension (₱2,499) and PRIMA for Diabetes (₱2,099).

PRIMA is a product of MaxiHealth and exclusively distributed by Maxicare. PRIMA products may be used exclusively at Maxicare Primary Care Clinics (PCCs) nationwide.

On the other hand, while we hope it doesn’t get to us, in case of emergencies like extreme asthmatic reaction or gastric discomfort, get immediate medical assistance from the nearest emergency room. That’s where Maxicare LivesavER and LifesavER+ come in. You can use these prepaid emergency cards to help cover those unexpected ER bills. They’re accepted at any Maxicare-affiliated hospital and start at just ₱2,299.

No matter the season, your health should still be a priority. Get your Maxicare LifesavER prepaid emergency card via , and the PRIMA line of prepaid healthcare products at .

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