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Jakarta. The stresses of traveling long distances and gorging on food over the Idul Fitri holiday can leave people vulnerable to a range of illnesses, a doctor has warned.

Ari Fahrial Syam, an internist at Jakarta’s Cipto Mangunkusumo General Hospital, said recently that those most at risk from ailments such as diarrhea and high cholesterol were people who had long treks to their hometowns to celebrate the holiday with their families.

He said these travelers were at risk of weakening their immune systems through a lack of sleep and not getting proper nutrition and enough water.

“People tend not to pay attention to the quality of food they consume during the journeys to their hometowns,” he said.

“They eat whatever they can easily find along the way, and are prone to catching a cold or suffering other respiratory problems. They also tend not to question how hygienic the food is.”

Ari also said those with pre-existing medical conditions also risked exacerbating their symptoms because of the feasting that was synonymous with the holiday.

“People who already suffer from chronic high cholesterol or diabetes stand a big chance of worsening their condition during Idul Fitri because the tend to eat more during this time,” he said. “Those who suffer from hypertension may end up having a stroke or a heart attack.”

Most popular snacks and meals served during this time are high in fat, salt and sugar, while most people tended to drink soft drinks rather than water, he added.

Exacerbating the problem is the fact that most people stop exercising during Ramadan, the month of fasting leading up to the holiday, while the exodus of most domestic workers over Idul Fitri prompts many people to eat more processed or fast foods.

“People who have to manage their homes alone tend not to consume fresh foods,” Ari said.

According to Ari, it was imperative that people monitored their food intake during Idul Fitri and balanced it with adequate exercise to help stave off illness.

“We need to remember that these are all illnesses that can be prevented simply through adopting a healthy diet,” he said.