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ARS Home » Plains Area » Grand Forks, North Dakota » Grand Forks Human Nutrition Research Center » Healthy Body Weight Research » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #203470
Title: From Mexico to Here: An Observational Study of Traditional Dietary Practices

Author
item Colby, Sarah

Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 12/11/2006
Publication Date: 3/27/2007
Citation: Colby, S.E. 2007. From Mexico to here: An observational study of traditional dietary practices [abstract]. Presented at Society for Applied Anthropology 67th Annual Meeting. March 27-31, 2007. Tampa, FL.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: As Mexican-Americans acculturate to the American diet and lifestyle they have increased risk of developing many chronic diseases. An understanding of traditional environment and behavior is needed to address this phenomenon. Transnational qualitative research (participant observation, photography, and in-depth interviewing) revealed participants’ dietary and lifestyle behaviors in Mexico and addressed factors associated with acculturation. Respondents have identified the Mexican diet to include “fruit, vegetables and beans” and the American diet to include “hotdogs, french fries, hamburgers, and pizza.” Respondents were not aware of any health benefits related to the “Mexican diet” or risks associated with the “American diet”.