Moldovan health specialists recommend rational consumption of food products during Easter holidays

Health specialists recommend that citizens consume food products rationally during the Easter holidays. They warn that excessive food intake can have serious consequences for health.

The head of the Information and Communication Service of the National Public Health Agency (ANSP), Olesea Croitor, has told MOLDPRES that a sudden shift from a fasting diet based on plant products to one rich in meat and other animal-origin products can lead to the worsening of chronic diseases, especially digestive ones, and may favor the onset or worsening of non-communicable diseases, such as diabetes or cardiovascular conditions.

“To prevent such problems, it is recommended to return gradually to the usual diet. The body needs 7–14 days to readapt to digesting animal-origin products. It is advisable to introduce them gradually – starting with fermented dairy products, eggs, and fish, then switching to poultry and later to red meat,” said Olesea Croitor.

At the same time, it is recommended to follow the principles of a balanced diet: half of the plate should consist of fresh vegetables and greens and salads should be seasoned with cold-pressed oils, not mayonnaise.

ANSP also urges caution in choosing traditional Easter products. Thus, foods must be purchased from authorized sources, and boiled eggs are recommended to be consumed within a maximum of seven days. Easter cakes and sweet bread (cozonac and pasca) should contain only natural ingredients, without additives or unhealthy fats.

To prevent food poisoning, health specialists recall the five food hygiene rules established by the World Health Organization: hand and surface hygiene, separation of raw and cooked products, adequate heat treatment (at least 70°C), proper refrigeration (4–6°C), and the use of safe ingredients.

ANSP also draws attention to alcohol consumption, stressing that there is no safe level of consumption. The World Health Organization recommends completely avoiding alcoholic beverages, in order to maintain health.

This year, Easter will be celebrated on April 12 and Memorial Easter (Paștele Blajinilor) will be marked on April 19.