Page 258 - Nutrition Essentials for Nursing Practice

246 U N I T 2 Nutrition in Health Promotion

■ F I G U R E 1 0 . 3 In general, African Americans should
increase their intake of fruits and vegetables (USDA).

■ Have a significantly higher prevalence of hypertension (42%) than Whites (29.1%) (Fryar,
Hirsch, Eberhardt, Yoon, and Wright, 2010). African Americans are also more likely to
develop complications related to hypertension, such as heart disease, stroke, and end-
stage renal disease.

■ Have a higher prevalence of diabetes (14.5%) than Whites (8.3%) (Fryar et al., 2010).
■ Have an infant mortality rate that is 2.3 times higher than Whites (OMH, 2012a).

Mexican Americans

The OMH describes Hispanics or Latinos as people of Cuban, Mexican, Puerto Rican, South
or Central American, or other Spanish culture or origin regardless of race (OMH, 2012c). They
are a diverse group differing in native language, customs, history, and foodways. According to
2011 U.S. Census Bureau population estimates, approximately 52 million Hispanics are liv-
ing in the Unites States, which represents 16.7% of the American population (OMH, 2012c).
Mexicans are the largest subgroup at 63% of the Hispanic American population.

Traditional Food Practices

The traditional Mexican diet, influenced by Spanish and Native American cultures, is gener-
ally a low-fat, high-fiber diet rich in complex carbohydrates and vegetable proteins, with
an emphasis on corn, corn products, beans, and rice. Tortillas are a staple and may be con-
sumed at every meal. Pork, goat, and poultry are the most used animal proteins; they are
usually served ground or chopped as part of a mixed dish. Vegetables are also rarely served
separately; they are incorporated into soups, rice, pasta, and tortilla-based dishes. Milk
is not widely used, and lactose intolerance is common. Table 10.5 highlights traditional
Mexican food practices and the impact of acculturation.

Health Beliefs

Traditional health beliefs are a blend of European folk medicine introduced from Spain and
Native American rituals. Health is viewed as a gift from God, and illness is caused by outside
forces unless it is punishment from God for sin (Kittler et al., 2012). Illness is inevitable
and to be endured. Certain foods may be considered “cold” or “hot” for healing purposes.
Prayer is appropriate for all illnesses, and lighting of candles on behalf of a sick person is
common (Kittler et al., 2012).