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While nutrition is a science, food is personal, andhealthy eatingis a little bit different for everyone.
Courtesy of Miho Hatanaka
When more cultures are represented, were able to connect with patients on a more meaningful level.
Because of the lack of diversity in the field, health and nutrition resources are not always inclusive.
I think that when it comes to food and nutrition media, the problem is worse.
Courtesy of Jessica Jones
This is unfortunate because it excludes so many people who dont identify with that narrative.
In fact, this experience is what first made me want to become a dietitian.
A person’s ethnic and cultural background has a huge impact on their relationship with food.
Courtesy of Miho Hatanaka
Food is what builds our bodies, but it also shapes our culture.
It plays a role in many aspects of our lives: physically, mentally, and spiritually.
She makes a batter from eggs and chickpea flour, adds vegetables, and eats it for breakfast.
Courtesy of Nour Zibdeh
That’s a creative new meal idea!
It’s been incredibly frustrating to not have more people of color within the field of nutrition.
I envisioned graduate school being this enriching experience, where I would develop strong bonds with future colleagues.
Courtesy of Wendy Lopez
Ninety-nine percent of my clients are people of color, and about 70 percent of those clients are women.
In my clinical practice, I work mainly with Latino immigrants, many of whom are undocumented.
This acknowledgement goes a long way in developing a strong relationship.
Courtesy of Sobia Khan
Being able to speak their language and empathize with their experiences is an incredibly valuable tool during sessions.
Culture and ethnicity are intertwined with food.
Food connects people to their childhood, family, and cultural traditions.
Courtesy of Ha Nguyen
I live in Philadelphia, which to me is truly the city of brotherly love.
My Asian background has led to some great business opportunities, as well.
My consultations include a full intake of my client’s food history and lifestyle.
Courtesy of Nazima Qureshi
What kinds of food are they eating?
How do they prepare it?
Who do they live with?
Who are they eating dinner with?
Where do they go grocery shopping?
Who is doing the cooking?
Giving someone effective nutrition advice is about figuring out healthy habits that align with their lifestyle and their values.
A person’s ethnic and cultural background plays a large role on their relationship with food.
Each culture not only brings specific flavors, but also certain practices.
However, it is important to not make generalizations when it comes to a certain ethnicity or culture.
Even within my Muslim clientele, multiple cultures and ethnicities are represented.
Then, I can provide personalized information based on the various factors that influence my client’s food intake.
