Prime Highlights:
In Christmas, more than 1,500 emergency calls have been recorded in Romania.
Doctors working in ambulances have been doubled during this holiday season since the demands are high for the medical services during holidays.
Key Background:
Romania witnessed a significant increase in emergency calls over the Christmas period, primarily attributed to overeating and related health issues. More than 1,500 individuals required ambulance services, with around 50 cases involving severe digestive or heart problems. This surge in emergencies during the holiday season highlights the risks associated with traditional feasts, which often include large quantities of rich, heavy foods.
Emergency authorities reported that the number of doctors on ambulances was doubled during the holidays to manage the influx of cases. Health professionals noted that many of the calls were linked to the excess consumption of food and alcohol, common during the Christmas festivities in Romania, a country known for its elaborate holiday meals.
Nutritionist Ligia Alexandrescu emphasized that the rise in emergency calls was expected given the tendency of people to overindulge during celebrations. She also highlighted the economic factor, as the rising costs of traditional foods have led individuals to buy in larger quantities, often leading to overeating and food waste. However, she noted that this trend of purchasing only what is necessary can also reduce waste, which has a positive environmental impact.
In Romania, Christmas is a deeply cherished holiday, especially within the context of Orthodox Christian traditions. The celebrations are often marked by fasting, confession, and the Holy Communion, with many people engaging in the 40-day Nativity fast before the holiday season. Despite this, nutritionists continue to warn against the dangers of excessive eating, urging people to exercise moderation in their festive meals. The end-of-year holiday season, while filled with joy and celebration, can also bring about unexpected health challenges. Experts advise the public to be mindful of their food and drink consumption during the festivities to avoid the need for emergency medical attention.
