Romania saw a spike in emergency calls over Christmas due to overeating, with nutritionists warning of the health risks of indulgence.
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The Christmas festivities, filled with delicious meals, may be over, but their aftermath lingers for some in Romania — and it’s far from pleasant.
Emergency authorities say more than 1,500 people called ambulances during Christmas, with around 50 suffering from severe digestive or heart-related issues.
According to local officials in Bucharest, doctors on ambulances doubled in number during the holidays to give medical care to those in need.
For nutritionist Ligia Alexandrescu, the surge in the number of emergency-related issues on Christmas was not surprising.
“There’s also an economic factor,” Alexandrescu explained. “Traditional food has become increasingly expensive, meaning people buy less and avoid throwing leftovers that are still good.”
She added, “This is a positive sign, as it encourages purchasing only what we consume, reducing food waste.”
Christmas celebration in Romania, a largely orthodox Christian nation, is one of the most cherished holidays with unique festive traditions. Most people observe fasting, confession, and the Holy Communion. The 40-day Nativity fast often begins on 14 November every year.
Nutritionists warn that overeating carries several health risks and advise caution.
"We are talking about culinary education here. Many people who tend to overeat have understood over time that there is plenty of time to eat those dishes,' says Alexandrescu.
Despite the uplifting mood of the season, the end-of-year holiday season can sometimes trigger emergencies. From overindulgence in alcohol to unexpected food reactions, Christmas dinner traditions and New Year celebrations can sometimes take a turn for the worse, according to nutrition experts.
