Proper nutrition for disease prevention.

The task of protecting, caring for, and improving the health of the people is a crucial responsibility of the entire political system and society. Resolution No. 72-NQ/TW dated September 9, 2025, of the Politburo on some breakthrough solutions to strengthen the protection, care, and improvement of the people's health, and Resolution No. 282/NQ-CP dated September 15, 2025, of the Government promulgating the Government's Action Program to implement Resolution No. 72-NQ/TW on strengthening the protection, care, and improvement of the people's health in the new situation, have decided to designate April 7th of each year as National Health Day.

Officials from the Lang Son Provincial Center for Disease Control participated in the Olympic Run for Public Health and National Security (March 22, 2026).

In 2026, Vietnam has chosen the theme for National Health Day as: “Proactive Disease Prevention – For a Healthy Vietnam”. This theme reflects a shift from a mindset focused on diagnosis and treatment to one of proactive disease prevention; thereby strengthening the protection, care, and improvement of people's health comprehensively and continuously throughout their life cycle, in line with the spirit of Resolution 72-NQ/TW. At the same time, it demonstrates Vietnam's commitment to implementing and supporting the World Health Organization's theme for World Health Day 2026: “Global Action for Universal Health Coverage”, aiming for all citizens to have access to quality, equitable, and sustainable healthcare services.

Among the 15 topics selected by the Ministry of Health for the 2026 National Health Day campaign, three are related to nutrition. According to Dr. Tran Hoang Kim, a Master of Nutrition from the Provincial Center for Disease Control, “Proper nutrition is the core foundation of health and the most proactive ‘shield’ in preventing disease. A standard diet needs to ensure a balance of four essential nutrient groups: carbohydrates, proteins, fats, and vitamins and minerals. In addition, adequate water and fiber intake play a crucial role in supporting metabolism, maintaining the gut microbiome, and eliminating toxins. When the body receives these nutrients in appropriate proportions for its age, the immune system is strengthened at the cellular level, enhancing its ability to fight off pathogens. This is a practical step towards achieving the goal of ‘Protecting’ the nation.” Preventive measures - For a healthy Vietnam.

The National Institute of Nutrition recommends: A balanced diet is one that provides sufficient quantities of food according to the nutritional pyramid for each age group, as developed by the National Institute of Nutrition, Ministry of Health, and includes a variety of foods in meals. It is necessary to combine both animal protein (such as fish, chicken, beef, eggs, milk, etc.) and plant protein (from beans, legumes, etc.). Foods rich in vitamin A include animal liver and egg yolks. Vegetables and fruits also contain plenty of vitamin A in the form of beta-carotene, including: papaya, carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, oranges, mangoes, gac fruit, broccoli, spinach… Foods rich in vitamin C come from fresh fruits and vegetables such as: oranges, tangerines, grapefruits, guavas, papayas, mangoes, apples, grapes, kiwis, tomatoes, cauliflower, radishes, water spinach, bell peppers, spinach… Foods rich in vitamin E include nuts such as sunflower seeds, soy products, wheat, bean sprouts, microgreens, spinach… Foods rich in vitamin D include: fish liver, egg yolks, fish; foods fortified with vitamin D include milk and cereals.

Sources of selenium include brown rice, sprouted rice, germinated rice, fish, shrimp, and seaweed. Poultry (chicken, etc.) and shellfish such as oysters, crabs, and clams are extremely rich sources of zinc. In addition, animal liver and lean meat are also very rich in iron. Omega-3 fatty acids are abundant in products such as fish oil, cod liver oil, sardines, salmon, basa fish, flounder, herring, tuna, oysters, and some nuts. Furthermore, it is necessary to eat foods rich in flavonoids, found in herbs and spices such as mint, perilla, broccoli, kale, apples, green tea, ginger, garlic, turmeric, and leafy green vegetables. Foods containing beneficial live microorganisms (probiotics) such as yogurt, some types of cheese, and fermented soybeans (miso, natto) help strengthen the body's immune system.

Proper nutrition, increased daily physical activity, complete vaccinations, and attention to mental health are simple yet incredibly important things that each of us can do to stay healthy and contribute to building a happy family and a prosperous society.

Department of Health Communication - Center for Disease Control and Prevention

Source: https://soyt.langson.gov.vn/thong-inform-chuyen-nganh/y-te-du-phong/dinh-duong-hop-ly-de-phong-benh.html