Influence of Culture on Diets

Incidences of obesity have tripled in the U.S. since 1980 among children ages six to 17, according to the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. This and other problems stemming from the North American diet have been observed in Westernized countries as well. The increase in diseases generated by this diet is directly correlated to its use by other countries.

South Africa and Mexico

The diet of the white population of South Africa is high in meat and dairy. This increases diseases associated with these types of foods. The staples of the Mexican diet are rice, beans, corn, shredded beef or chicken, tomatoes and chili peppers. The spicy chilies stimulate the digestive function, clean the blood and may help prevent certain degenerative diseases. Yet beer, tequila and saturated oils are also part of the Mexican diet, contributing to weight issues and atherosclerosis in the country.

Australia/New Zealand and the British Isles

The New Zealand diet consists of dairy products high in saturated fat. This contributes to high blood fats and the increased prevalence of atherosclerosis, high blood pressure, heart disease and cancer. Daily beer consumption impacts the liver. In the British Isles, large amounts of processed foods and red meat contribute to the increase in heart disease. Butter is the main cooking fat, and milk and cheese are eaten daily. These foods make the British diet high in fats and also contribute to cardiovascular disease.

Western Europe

The Germanic diet consists of daily breads and cakes. Potatoes, meats (especially sausage) are staples. Butter and lard are the main cooking fats. Fermented foods are eaten; this helps the intestinal tract digest the higher-fat, low-fiber diet. Cabbage and cauliflower are the most popular vegetables. Beer consumption is high, leading to more weight problems than in other European cultures. Ironically, France, which shares a diet similar to other Western countries, has the highest intake of alcohol but one of the lowest rates of heart disease. Research continues in order to identify the reasons; but as of today, it remains a paradox.

Mediterranean Diet

The Mediterranean diet is similar to the Turkish and Middle Eastern diets, with wheat, rice, lamb, goat, cheeses, yogurt, olives and olive oil. Lower animal fat intake and more olive oil contribute to a lower risk of cardiovascular disease. Fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood, tomatoes, peppers, citrus fruits, nuts and herbs are eaten daily. Wine and coffee are staples in these cultures. Negative aspects of the Mediterranean diet include excessive use of coffee and sweets.

Asia

The Asian countries' diet includes grains, fresh vegetables, some meat, poultry and fish. In Asia, there are less incidences of chronic degenerative diseases. The elderly population is healthier and more active, and there are less reported cases of atherosclerosis. High blood pressure and heart disease are also lower compared to other countries. However, with the increasing use of refined sugar products, adult diabetes and cancer rates are increasing. As they continue to become more Americanized, the Asian population's health will be affected negatively.

Jewish Diet

The Jewish diet consists mostly of cooked foods. Flour products are used often. Vegetables are eaten cooked in soups or with meats. Fruits are also often cooked. The Jewish diet includes meats, such as beef, goat and chicken. Whitefish is consumed often as well. Other common foods include potato flour pancakes, matzoh balls, kreplach, blintzes and flour pastries. The combination of foods in the Jewish diet causes many people of this culture to suffer weight problems.