During the December season, the consumption of foods high in calories and fats tends to increase, and during these holidays, an average weight gain of between 3 and 5 kilograms can occur, according to data from the Mexican Institute of Social Security (IMSS, 2017).
Consumption Data Mexico
Mexico is the second country in Latin America, after Chile, in which spending during the Christmas and New Year holidays is highest. The average budget allocated for expenses during these festivities, including food, new clothing for the occasion, and gifts, is estimated at 368 dollars per person (Statia, 2019). It also mentions that in December, families spend more on beer, especially in years without a World Cup. This month is when the most money is spent on this beverage. A significant amount is also spent on other alcoholic beverages such as whiskey, gin, vodka, rum, tequila, and brandy, even more than during national holidays. From December 24 to 31, 46% of total spending on alcoholic beverages occurs due to the celebrations.
December Expenses
A survey conducted in 2023 by the Strategic Communication Cabinet (GCE), consulted by the Data Laboratory Against Obesity (LabDO), revealed that Mexicans allocated more money in December to the Christmas dinner (58%) than to other categories. Among the main dishes consumed are: turkey (29%), tamales (14%), pork leg (10%), roasted or stuffed chicken (7%), and apple salad (7%). (Strategic Communication Cabinet, 2023).
Other Excess Consumptions
However, the excessive consumption of carbohydrates, fats, sodium, and alcohol contributes to overweight and obesity. This can lead to the development of metabolic disorders, insulin resistance, elevated levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood, as well as hypertension (National Autonomous University of Mexico, 2017).
According to data from the National Survey on Health and Nutrition Continuous (Ensanut) 2020-2023, the prevalence of obesity among adults in the country was 37.1%, which was significantly higher in women and in the age group of 40 to 59 years (National Survey on Health and Nutrition Continuous, 2024).
Recommendations
The information shared by LabDo highlights the importance of adopting healthy habits to care for or maintain body weight. Doctors and nutritionists suggest serving smaller portions and increasing the intake of fruits and vegetables. It is essential to stay well-hydrated, choose low-fat foods, and opt for desserts and Christmas sweets with low sugar content. Additionally, it is advised to reduce alcohol consumption, manage stress effectively, and avoid eating at odd hours.
References
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- Encuesta Nacional de Salud y Nutrición Continua (ENSANUT). (2024). Obesidad en adultos. https://ensanut.insp.mx/encuestas/ensanutcontinua2023/doctos/analiticos/15863-Texto%20del%20art%C3%ADculo-82493-2-10-20240821.pdf
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- Gabinete de Comunicación Estratégica. (2023, Diciembre). Navidad 2023. https://gabinete.mx/images/reportes/2023/sociales/Rep_Navidad_2023.pdf
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- Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social (IMSS). (2017, Diciembre). Hasta cinco kilos de peso se puede aumentar en las fiestas de fin de año. https://www.imss.gob.mx/prensa/archivo/201712/393
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- Kantar. (2017, Agosto 12). ¿En qué gastan los mexicanos en diciembre? https://www.kantarworldpanel.com/mx/Noticias-/En-que-gastan-los-mexicanos-en-diciembre
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- Porcicultura. (2018, 24 de diciembre). La importación de piernas de cerdo para la cena navideña. https://www.porcicultura.com/destacado/La-importacion-de-piernas-de-cerdo-para-la-cena-navidena-rebasa-a-la-produccion-nacional
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- Statista. (2019, 16 de diciembre). ¿En qué país de América Latina se gasta más en Navidad? https://es.statista.com/grafico/20276/gasto-promedio-per-capita-en-navidad-en-latinoamerica/
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- Unión Nacional de Avicultores. (2021). Para esta Navidad. https://una.org.mx/pavo_para-esta-navidad-2021/#:~:text=Para%20estas%20fiestas%20decembrinas%2C%20el,la%20Uni%C3%B3n%20Nacional%20de%20Avicultores.
- Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM). (2017, 24 de Noviembre). Alimentación para la salud. Efectos del consumo excesivo de hidratos de carbono y grasa. https://alimentacionysalud.unam.mx/efecto-del-consumo-excesivo-de-hidratos-de-carbono-y-grasa-en-el-metabolismo-de-carbohidratos/
