Traditional Dietary Practices Research Articles

Exploring Healthy Eating Perceptions, Barriers, and Facilitators among Urban Indigenous Peoples in Saskatchewan.

Urban Indigenous populations encounter distinctive challenges in maintaining traditional dietary practices, compounded by the complexities of socio-economic and environmental factors and the modern urban lifestyle. This qualitative study explores the perceptions of healthy eating, along with the facilitators and barriers to such practices, among urban Indigenous peoples in Saskatoon, Regina, and Prince Albert. Through virtual interviews, we engage 14 participants from these cities. Utilizing NVivo for thematic coding, we apply inductive thematic analysis to reveal relevant themes. The study highlights a preference for nutrient-rich, natural, and minimally processed foods, with a significant emphasis on incorporating traditional Indigenous foods into diets. These preferences are deeply entwined with cultural identity and underscore the importance of traditional foods in maintaining cultural heritage and promoting well-being. Despite the intrinsic value of these traditional foods, participants face several barriers to healthy eating, including economic constraints, limited access to traditional foods, and the psychological impacts of historical trauma. Nevertheless, facilitators such as community and family support, engagement in traditional food practices, and a growing awareness of nutritional knowledge are identified as being crucial in supporting healthy dietary choices. This research underscores the complex interplay of cultural, economic, and environmental factors in shaping the dietary practices of urban Indigenous peoples.

The influence of culture on the health beliefs and health behaviours of older Vietnam-born Australians living with chronic disease.

To explore the health beliefs and health behaviours of older Vietnam-born people living with chronic disease in Western Australia. This study was designed as a focused ethnography guided by the interpretative research paradigm and Leininger's Theory of Culture Care. Data were collected through participant observation and interviews undertaken at participants' homes in Western Australia over 7 months in 2019. Data were analysed using Wolcott's approach for transferring qualitative data, comprising three phases: description, thematic analysis and interpretation. This study included 12 participants. The health perspectives and practices of older Vietnam-born Australians significantly reflected the traditional Vietnamese values. These included the stigma towards chronic disease as an inevitable consequence of ageing; self-blame thoughts about chronic disease causations and maintained traditional dietary practices. However, some aspects of their health behaviours such as beliefs and practices in traditional medicine, Western medicine and physical exercise reflected a blended approach combining both Vietnamese-oriented and Westernized-orientated practices. Individual factors were also identified as contributing to chronic disease self-care among participants. This study emphasizes culture played a significant role in shaping the way that older Vietnam-born Australians believed and behaved while living with chronic conditions. However, it also indicates that culture is not a stationary concept, it evolves gradually and is socially constructed. A better understanding of the health beliefs and practices of older Vietnam-born Australians is expected to contribute to the delivery of culturally safe and effective support for this population. The achievement of culturally safe care requires a systemic approach and collaboration of strategies across sectors. This study encompassed the contribution of 12 older Vietnam-born Australians who offered the researcher the privilege to enter their world and the staff of social care organization who opened the gate for the researcher to approach participants.

EFFECTS OF DEFICIENT DIETARY INFORMATION, WITH A FOCUS ON THE WORKING CLASS OF INDIA

Maintaining dietary equilibrium is essential for the well-being of individuals and future generations. However, a significant portion of the Indian population, specifically the working class, lack access to adequate dietary information and resources. This impedes their ability to maintain a balanced diet. This paper explores the importance of adequate nutrition, the dire ramifications of its absence, and possible solutions to this deficiency in nutrition. Using research techniques such as case studies and government data analysis, the paper investigates the current state of nutrition in India, particularly among the working class. It identifies cases of inadequate nutrition and food poisoning and their causes. The findings reveal that many Indians do not meet their daily nutritional requirements, with common deficiencies in vitamins B12 and D3, zinc, iron, calcium, folic acid, and Vitamin C. This inadequacy’s root causes are traditional dietary practices, vegetarianism, and, most importantly, the lack of dietary education and information among the working class of India. These nutritional deficits contribute to health issues such as obesity, heart disease, strokes, type 2 diabetes, and various cancers. Furthermore, food poisoning poses a significant threat to one's health, causing numerous deaths annually. Several methods of improvement for this bleak situation were deduced, such as awareness campaigns, collaborations between healthcare practitioners and schools or community centers, and the distribution of educational pamphlets in local languages, making dietary information easily accessible to the masses.

Cross-Cultural Differences in Food Preferences and Consumption Patterns

Purpose: This study sought to explore cross- cultural differences in food preferences and consumption patterns. Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library. Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to cross- cultural differences in food preferences and consumption patterns. Preliminary empirical review revealed that cultural heritage profoundly influenced individuals' food preferences and consumption habits, with distinct culinary traditions and family influences shaping dietary behaviors within specific cultural contexts. Globalization and urbanization were found to impact food preferences, yet traditional dietary practices remained resilient. Additionally, socio-economic factors significantly influenced dietary behaviors, particularly in low-income communities. These findings emphasized the importance of recognizing cultural diversity and socio-economic disparities in promoting healthy eating behaviors and improving public health outcomes. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Cultural Anthropology theory, Social Identity theory and Ecological Systems theory may be used to anchor future studies on cross- cultural differences in food preferences and consumption patterns. The study offered valuable recommendations that contributed to theory, practice, and policy in the field of nutrition and public health. By identifying cultural influences on food preferences and consumption patterns, the study enriched theoretical frameworks such as cultural anthropology, social identity theory, and ecological systems theory. Its findings informed the development of culturally sensitive interventions and educational programs, empowering individuals to make healthier food choices while respecting cultural heritage. Additionally, the study's insights guided the formulation of evidence-based policies aimed at addressing diet-related health disparities and promoting food security and nutrition equity on a global scale.

Spatial Barriers to Transforming toward a Healthy Food System in the Noreste of Mexico.

In the past five decades, global food systems have undergone a notable transition, moving from predominantly rural settings to increasingly urban and industrialized environments, largely driven by processes of globalization and supply chain integration. However, this evolution has not adequately addressed equitable access to nutritious diets and food environments, resulting in adverse health outcomes. This study delves into the spatial and non-spatial barriers that impede the adoption of healthy diets in the Noreste of Mexico, particularly focusing on the challenges associated with accessing and cultivating plant-based foods. Through an examination of suitable areas for urban agriculture and an exploration of the socio-cultural factors influencing the adoption of plant-based diets, the research focuses on interventions aimed at promoting healthier and more sustainable eating practices in Monterrey. The findings of the study reveal significant disparities in food access across the Monterrey metropolitan area, with central urban zones exhibiting superior access to fresh foods compared to suburban and peripheral regions. This inequality disproportionately affects marginalized areas characterized by higher poverty rates, exacerbating issues of food insecurity. Nevertheless, traditional dietary practices could offer promising avenues for creating culturally significant and healthier dietary transitions, even amidst the ongoing process of urbanization.

Examining the Effects of Local South African Diets on Endurance and Performance Enhancement in Rugby Athletes

This comprehensive review explores the effects of local South African diets on endurance and performance enhancement in rugby athletes. Understanding the intersection of traditional dietary practices and sports performance is crucial for optimizing athletes’ capabilities, particularly in a physically demanding sport like rugby. The study delves into the nutritional requirements of rugby, the richness of traditional South African diets, and their potential impact on endurance and performance. It investigates the role of macronutrients and micronutrients in rugby, emphasizing the unique aspects of local cuisines. The review also examines the relationship between South African diets and endurance, as well as their influence on rugby-specific performance, encompassing strength, power gains, and cognitive aspects. Practical implications are discussed, focusing on developing customized dietary plans for athletes and providing considerations for coaches, nutritionists, and athletes in implementing dietary changes. The findings offer valuable insights into optimizing the nutritional strategies for rugby athletes, considering the cultural and regional context of South African diets.

ETNOCONHECIMENTO SOBRE A VINAGREIRA (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) POR MORADORES DE COMUNIDADES RURAIS NO MARANHÃO, NORDESTE DO BRASIL

Objective: To understand traditional dietary practices involving Hibiscus sabdariffa L. among residents of two rural communities (Barra do Saco and Saco) in the municipality of Codó, Maranhão, Brazil. Theoretical Framework: Ethnoknowledge is crucial for obtaining information about food plants in rural communities. Hibiscus sabdariffa L., popularly known as vinagreira (roselle), is a naturalized plant consumed as food in the North and Northeast regions of Brazil. Method: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with men and women using forms, along with photographic documentation, field notes, and the guided tour technique, supplemented by bibliographic research. Results and Conclusion: Knowledge about vinagreira is consistent among both men and women. Only the younger and greener leaves are harvested, as they impart a less bitter taste when preparing cuxá. The fruits are consumed fresh or in the form of sweets. The preparation of cuxá, a typical dish in Maranhão cuisine, is predominantly carried out by women. Research Implications: The method of food preparation is an integral part of the traditional culture of these communities, passed down through generations. Culture, symbols, traditions, and knowledge are resilient constructs of the residents. Ethnoknowledge promotes the conservation of ethnobotanical knowledge in rural areas, elucidating the processes of human-nature interaction over time. Originality/Value: Cultural information was successfully retrieved from rural communities through the use and knowledge of vinagreira, highlighting that these populations possess rich cultural histories and beliefs that may generate new hypotheses.

Traditional Dietary Practices Followed by Gaddi Tribe of Himachal Pradesh To Manage Major discomforts and Complications Associated with Pregnancy

Traditional Dietary Practices Followed by Gaddi Tribe of Himachal Pradesh To Manage Major discomforts and Complications Associated with Pregnancy

Unravelling the gut-lung axis: insights into microbiome interactions and Traditional Indian Medicine's perspective on optimal health.

The microbiome of the human gut is a complex assemblage of microorganisms that are in a symbiotic relationship with one another and profoundly influence every aspect of human health. According to converging evidence, the human gut is a nodal point for the physiological performance matrixes of the vital organs on several axes (i.e. gut-brain, gut-lung, etc.). As a result of COVID-19, the importance of gut-lung dysbiosis (balance or imbalance) has been realised. In view of this, it is of utmost importance to develop a comprehensive understanding of the microbiome, as well as its dysbiosis. In this review, we provide an overview of the gut-lung axial microbiome and its importance in maintaining optimal health. Human populations have successfully adapted to geophysical conditions through traditional dietary practices from around the world. In this context, a section has been devoted to the traditional Indian system of medicine and its theories and practices regarding the maintenance of optimally customized gut health.

Animals in Brazil: Economic, Legal and Ethical Perspectives

Animals in Brazil: Economic, Legal and Ethical Perspectives

Island Colonization and Human-Environment Interactions on the Edges of the Tropics: Archaeology of the Taíno Frontier (Northern Bahamas)

ABSTRACT Variability across frontiers and boundaries challenges the resilience of expanding populations. Here, we contribute to a broader understanding of global patterns of island colonization and expose the diversity of lifeways experienced across the Taíno culture area by exploring Lucayan settlement of the small subtropical islands of the northern Bahama archipelago. The results of this first comprehensive investigation document the rapid expansion and early arrival of humans in the northern zone (ca. a.d. 900); deviations from traditional settlement patterns and dietary practices, which reflect responses to the unique local environment, including the association of humans with extirpated/extinct animals; sources for pottery imported from the Greater Antillean Taínos; and, a previously unrecognized local pottery variety attributable to the quality of local clay sources. The frontier provides a new perspective on the Taíno core area and raises additional questions concerning life along a historically progressing frontier. Video : https://vimeo.com/363737943

Abstract P615: Frequency of Herb and Spice Use Among the South-Asian Adult Population in the United States: A Pilot Study

Introduction: South Asians (SA) are among the fastest growing immigrant population in the U.S. They are at higher risk for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) and cardiovascular diseases (CVD) compared to non-Hispanic whites and East-Asians. Dietary components are modifiable risk factors for various non communicable diseases. SA Adults incorporate a unique set of herbs and spices in their cooking. The American Heart Association (AHA) directly recommends limiting salt intake, yet neglects to include recommendations about herb and spice use. Our objective was to collect information about SA herb and spice use that can be incorporated in the development of a diet assessment tool that encompasses traditional and western dietary practices among SA Americans. Hypothesis: We assessed the hypothesis that SA Adults living in the United States will report frequent (4+ times/week) use of herbs and spices in their cooking. Methods: A sample of adults aged 18+ yrs, self-identifying as SA and living in the U.S. were recruited via email, flyers, and social media platforms. Sociodemographic information and food preparation habits were collected using a Qualtrics survey. Respondents (n=29) were invited to participate in focus groups (n=16) via zoom. Participants were queried on meal habits, food list groupings [including 73 herbs and spices] and frequency of herb and spice use. Results: The Qualtrics survey (n= 13, 44.8%) and focus group (n=14, 87.5%) responses showed a high frequency of herb and spice use (>4 times/week). Participants reported intentionally reducing salt and fat intakes in their diets, and increasing herbs and spice use for health reasons (n=8, 50%). Many (n=8,50%) commented that food did not taste like “home” , but they wanted to prioritize health. Additionally, use of pre-made/packaged spice mixes was reported by all participants in the focus group (n=16, 100%). The ten most frequently consumed herbs and spices were: garlic, black pepper, salt, turmeric, ginger, cumin, onion, coriander, chili powder and fenugreek. Conclusions: This study demonstrates that SA Adults living in the US frequently consume a varied number of herbs and spices. This finding underlies the need for developing a culturally component diet assessment tool, for example one that includes herbs and species for SA, to assess their relationship to CVD. In conclusion, this study demonstrates the necessity of dietary recommendations that align with cultural practices.

Commentary: When applying dietary therapies for gastrointestinal conditions, family values, culture, and social challenges matter.

Some gastrointestinal conditions now have diet as a cornerstone to therapy. Three examples include the low-fermentable, oligosaccharide, disaccharide, monosaccharide, and polyol diet for irritable bowel syndrome, a gluten-free diet for celiac disease, and a hypoallergenic diet for eosinophilic esophagitis. All have been shown to be effective in Western or highly industrialized countries. However, these gastrointestinal conditions occur worldwide. Less is known regarding the effectiveness of dietary therapies in cultures and regions of dense religious and traditional practices where food is a central focus. This includes South Asia, the Mediterranean region, Africa, the Middle East, South America, and within Indigenous communities. Hence, there is a need to reproduce dietary intervention studies within cultures of dense traditional dietary practices to understand the applicability and acceptability of dietary therapy to establish generalizability. Furthermore, there is a need for nutrition experts to have a deep understanding of various cultural cuisines, practices, values, and customs. To achieve this, increasing the diversity of students in the sciences and having a diverse workforce of nutrition experts and health professionals that reflects the patient population will allow for more personalized care. In addition, there are social challenges, including a lack of medical insurance coverage, the cost of dietary interventions, and inconsistent nutrition messaging. Although there are many cultural considerations and social challenges to implementing effective dietary interventions around the world, these barriers are addressable through research methodologies that address culture and society challenges, and enhanced training of dietitians.

Traditional Dietary Practices and Related Taboos during Menstruation among Women of Rural Households in Haryana: A Qualitative Study

Background: Women imbibe many myths, taboos, and practices about food during menstruation. The socioculturalmilieu of Indian society can explain the notions of menstrual restrictions. Aim: To know the traditionaldietary practices and related taboos during menstruation among women of rural households in Sonepat, Haryana.Material and Methods: This community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 90 households invillage Juan, Haryana selected by systematic random sampling from July 2021 to June 2022. Data regardingtraditional dietary practices and related taboos during menstruation among women at the household level werecollected using an open-ended questionnaire from a woman from each selected household after written informedconsent. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20.Results: Mean age (SD) of the study participants was 44.1 (14) years with a range from 18-85 years. Two-thirds(66.7%) of study households reported avoidance of buttermilk/curd and pickles due to the belief of an increase inpain and cramps on consumption. One-third of study households preferred hot beverages such as tea (37.8%) andtea with clarified butter (31.1%) believing that pain and cramps get relieved, and clarified butter provides strengthto the body.Conclusion: There are a number of dietary practices and related taboos prevalent among study households thatmay affect mental health.

A Review of Dietary Intake during Postpartum Period

The postpartum period is a critical period for maternal and infant health. There is clear evidence showing the short- and long-term health benefits for women to adopt a healthy diet during this period. An unhealthy diet during this period can lead to cardiovascular disease and mental health problem among the mothers. Besides, optimal food consumption during postpartum is crucial to support the additional nutrient requirements for breastfeeding and to reduce postpartum weight retention. Lack of social support and some harmful traditional dietary practices are among the barriers which prevent postpartum women from consuming balanced and nutritious food. Therefore, there is a need for effective nutritional intervention to promote better health for the population. Furthermore, the intervention should be culturally sensitive to respect the local traditional dietary practices for better community acceptance.

'Old Is Gold': How Traditional Indian Dietary Practices Can Support Pediatric Diabetes Management.

Nutrition is crucial for maintaining normal growth, development, and glycemic control in young people with diabetes (PwD). Undue restrictions cause nutrient deficiencies as well as poor adherence to meal plans. Widespread availability of low-cost, ultra-processed, and hyperpalatable food is further damaging. Most families struggle to find ways to provide nutritious, yet attractive, food with a low glycemic index (GI). India is one of the oldest continuous civilizations with a rich and diverse cultural and culinary heritage. Traditional dietary practices, including the centuries-old ‘Thali’ (meaning plate) concept, emphasize combinations (grains, lentils, vegetables, dairy, spices, prebiotics and probiotics, and fats) of local, seasonal, and predominantly plant-based ingredients. These practices ensure that all of the necessary food groups are provided and fit well with current evidence-based recommendations, including the International Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Diabetes (ISPAD) 2018 Guidelines. Techniques for the preparation, cooking, and preservation of food further impact the GI and nutrient availability. These practices benefit nutrient density, diet diversity, and palatability and thus improve adherence to meal plans and glycemic control. This narrative review describes the ancient wisdom, food composition, and culinary practices from across India which are still valuable today. These may be of benefit worldwide to improve glycemic control as well as quality of life, especially in PwD.

Strengthening Community through a Traditional Haudenosaunee Diet

The Haudenosaunee Peoples of Eastern North America share a strong pastoral tradition and culture associated with maize agriculture. Traditional dietary practices were severely disrupted by colonial practices, and over time this has led to increased burdens of chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and obesity. To lead meaningful Traditional dietary practices, Haudenosaunee community members mobilized to develop and promote a 90-day challenge called ‘Healthy Roots.’ The Healthy Roots Program prioritizes Traditional Haudenosaunee foods found in territories during pre-contact times. The community decided to officially evaluate the impact of the dietary program using a pilot pre–post evaluation study (International Journal of Indigenous Health, 2021). We created the following digital story to capture the experiences and perspectives of the first cohort of community members to enroll in the Six Nations Healthy Roots Research Study. The film team attended six community meetings between February 2017 and October 2017 to capture the stories of participants before, during, and after the completion of the Healthy Roots Program. *Private Media Link for Video: https://bit.ly/3EJnsJO

An introduction to the Food-Based Dietary Guidelines for the Elderly in South Africa

Food-based dietary guidelines (FBDGs) are not a new concept and are being used in many countries to promote healthy eating and the prevention of diet-related chronic diseases. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) recommended FBDGs as an approach to prevent malnutrition and promote healthy dietary behaviours in populations, taking into consideration local conditions, traditional dietary practices and socioeconomic and cultural factors whilst at the same time using evidence-based scientific principles. South Africa (SA) currently has two sets of guidelines, namely the paediatric food-based dietary guidelines and the South African FBDGs for the population aged seven years and older. The recognition that elderly malnutrition remains a major public health concern in SA led to the formulation of a specific set of guidelines for this vulnerable population group based on existing nutrition-related health issues, local dietary habits and barriers to food intake experienced by those aged 60 and above. This introductory paper on the development of the elderly food-based dietary guidelines (EFBDGs) will be followed by six technical papers motivating why these guidelines are suited to address nutrition-related issues among the elderly in SA.

Knowledge and perceptions around self-management of type 2 diabetes among a Sudanese community in Australia: A qualitative study.

People from Sudanese background are more likely to be diagnosed with type 2 diabetes (T2D) as compared to the general population. In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of migrants from Sudan to Australia. However, there is a dearth of research exploring the perceptions and experiences of self-management strategies for diabetes among this migrant Sudanese population residing in Australia. This study aims to explore these experiences and perceptions as well as to identify cultural aspects related to T2D self-management strategies for people from this migrant group. A qualitative study using semi-structured in-depth interviews with Sudanese participants (n=12) living with T2D was conducted in Melbourne, Australia. The thematic analysis found barriers to self-management of diabetes to include language differences, the burden of self-management, difficulties in accommodating traditional dietary practices in self-management, as well as the expectations of familial and social obligations. Enablers included positive relationships with health professionals, support networks, involvement in religion and adopting traditional remedies. This study found cultural considerations, such as incorporating traditional dietary practices and familial obligations into self-management, to be the most significant influence for this group of Sudanese participants in the way they managed their diabetes. This study highlights the need for culturally appropriate provision of health services and resources for Sudanese people with T2D while recognising the value placed on traditional food choices. Importantly, the collectivist Sudanese culture must be considered for any future development and implementation of health promotion strategies.

Traditional practices of postnatal care using medicinal plants in Tirunelveli district, Tamil Nadu, India

In India, traditional medicine practices were followed for centuries. Tirunelveli district were located in south Tamil Nadu has very strong background on traditional practices particularly during postnatal care in which medicinal plants play a major role. The indigenous practices have herbal formulations, traditional dietary practices, external application that are exclusively used during postnatal care to strengthen mother health and spiritual aspects of wellbeing. The results obtained from the study manifested the use of medicinal plants in south Indian traditional medicine practice in postnatal care.