Lechon, a quintessential Filipino holiday staple, should only be eaten in small amounts, according to Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Ted Herbosa.

A day before Noche Buena, Herbosa encouraged Filipinos to choose healthy foods.

"During feast dinners, there are also other foods, such as salad or fruits. Not just lechon. There are healthy choices. Let's take care of our bodies," he said.

Meanwhile, those who have underlying heart conditions are advised to avoid lechon altogether, Herbosa stressed to "stop reasoning out."

"When their cardiologist already told them that they cannot eat lechon, just follow them. Don't reason out that it's just once a year. If you are not allowed to eat it, don't," Herbosa said.

He also advised those with diabetes to avoid eating sweet at fatty foods, "Avoid salty, fatty, oily, and sweet foods. As they say, eat all the tasty foods in moderation."