BONTOC, Mountain Province – The Provincial Health Office shared tips on how to quit smoking and how to take good care of the kidneys this National Anti-Smoking Month and National Kidney Month.
provincial health officer Carolyn D. Yawan announced during the Tuesday program of the provincial government on June 18, 2024, that the observance of the National Anti-Smoking Month and National Kidney Month is by virtue of Presidential Proclamation No. 183, s. 1993 and No. 184, s. 1993, respectively.
In celebration of these two occasions, Yawan urged the provincial government employees to commit themselves in taking care of their health by putting an end to smoking cigarettes and using vapes and to also take care of their kidneys.
According to Yawan, during the first few days of not smoking, it is recommended for those who wish to quit smoking to drink plenty of juices such as cranberry juice to help stabilize blood sugar. Moreover, baking soda should also be added to their dietary consumption to increase the pH in the urine, which will result in a decreased craving for nicotine.
“Alkaline-forming foods such as spinach, raisins, and almonds should be preferred to acid-forming foods, like meat, greasy snacks, and sweet soft drinks, as these will only intensify your cravings.
Equally important in the journey of quitting smoking is a regular exercise that will help you achieve a healthy heart rate and reduce stress levels,” Yawan continued.
In addition, Yawan encouraged all attendees to be compliant with the Provincial Ordinance No. 517, s. 2024, the amended anti-smoking ordinance of the provincial government.
Meanwhile, Yawan encouraged all the attendees to also follow the following tips for healthy kidneys and prevent chronic kidney disease which is the 6th leading cause of mortality in province for 2023. Live an active and clean lifestyle; reduce the consumption of salty food and try not to eat more than 6g of salt a day; reduce the consumption of fatty food; if the person has diabetes or high blood pressure, make sure to keep them under control; dedicate 30 minutes for physical activity five days a week; stop smoking as it slows the blood flow to the kidneys; stay hydrated (at least 2 L of water a day) and avoid excess alcohol so the kidneys can do their job properly; and get regular tests like urinalysis and blood tests to ensure that the kidneys are healthy and functional. By HENT