Study Guide: Chapter 11 - Cultural and Religious Influences on Food and Nutrition

1. Eating Healthy While Eating Out

When dining out, making mindful choices can help maintain a balanced diet:

• Portion Control: Opt for smaller portions or share meals.

• Healthier Cooking Methods: Choose grilled, baked, or steamed options over fried foods.

• Side Substitutions: Replace fries with vegetables, salad, or fruit.

• Beware of Added Sugars and Sodium: Request dressings, sauces, and condiments on the side.

• Stay Hydrated: Drink water instead of sugary sodas or alcoholic beverages.

• Mindful Eating: Eat slowly and stop when full.

2. Traditional Food Practices of Cultural Groups in the U.S.

Each cultural group has unique traditional foods that influence dietary habits:

• African American: Soul food includes greens, cornbread, beans, fried foods, and sweet potatoes. Some diets are high in fat, sodium, and sugar.

• Hispanic/Latino: Beans, rice, tortillas, meats, and fresh fruits/vegetables are staples. Diets may be high in refined grains and saturated fats.

• Asian American: Rice, noodles, soy products, fish, and vegetables are common. Traditional diets are often low in dairy but high in sodium.

• Native American: Traditional foods include corn, beans, squash, fish, and game meats. Modern diets may be high in processed foods and sugar due to limited access to fresh ingredients.

• Middle Eastern: Staples include lentils, chickpeas, lamb, yogurt, flatbreads, and olive oil. Traditional diets are often heart-healthy but may contain high sodium levels.

3. Nutrition-Related Health Concerns of Cultural Groups

Different cultural groups face specific nutrition-related health risks:

• African American: Higher prevalence of hypertension, diabetes, and obesity due to high-sodium and high-fat diets.

• Hispanic/Latino: Increased risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes due to high-calorie diets and sugary beverages.

• Asian American: High sodium intake may contribute to hypertension; lactose intolerance is common.

• Native American: High rates of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease due to processed food consumption.

• Middle Eastern: Some diets may lead to high cholesterol and cardiovascular disease due to the use of saturated fats and sodium.

4. Impact of Acculturation on Food Choices

As individuals adapt to a new culture, dietary habits often change:

• Increased Processed Food Consumption: Exposure to fast food and convenience foods may lead to higher intake of unhealthy fats, sugar, and sodium.

• Shift Away from Traditional Diets: People may consume fewer whole foods, fresh produce, and culturally significant meals.

• Higher Intake of Dairy and Meat: Some cultures that traditionally consume plant-based diets adopt higher animal product consumption.

• Changes in Meal Patterns: Increased snacking and larger portion sizes are common.

• Health Implications: Acculturation may lead to increased rates of obesity, diabetes, and other chronic diseases.

5. Dietary Laws in Major World Religions

Many religious groups follow specific dietary laws:

• Christianity:

  • Catholicism: Fasting during Lent (e.g., abstaining from meat on Fridays).

  • Eastern Orthodox: Fasting periods with restrictions on animal products.

  • Seventh-day Adventists: Vegetarianism is encouraged.

• Judaism:

  • Kosher laws prohibit mixing meat and dairy.

  • Certain animals (e.g., pork, shellfish) are forbidden.

  • Slaughter and preparation must follow specific guidelines.

• Islam:

  • Halal laws dictate permissible foods and slaughter methods.

  • Pork and alcohol are prohibited.

  • Fasting during Ramadan from dawn to sunset.

• Hinduism:

  • Many Hindus practice vegetarianism.

  • Beef is forbidden, as cows are considered sacred.

• Buddhism:

  • Many Buddhists follow vegetarian or vegan diets.

  • Some sects avoid garlic, onions, and strong spices.

• Sikhism:

  • Some Sikhs follow vegetarian diets, especially in religious communities.

  • Alcohol and tobacco are often avoided.

Conclusion

Understanding cultural and religious influences on food choices is essential for promoting health and nutrition. Respecting dietary traditions while incorporating healthier eating habits can improve overall well-being and prevent diet-related health concerns.