Due to a traditional diet that is high in carbohydrates, fats and meats, many Latinos are at a higher risk for health problems like diabetes, cancer, obesity and heart disease, according to a report by Saludify.
Latinos may prevent these health issues by adopting the Flexitarian diet, which focuses on the consumption of mostly plant-based foods. The diet’s meal plans include “new meats”, like tofu, beans, and lentils. The diet also calls for fruits, vegetables, dairy, and whole grains.
Studies have shown that Latinos typically have high-calorie and high-fat meals that are centered around meats. In addition, many members of the Latino community in American have “fallen prey to the lure of inexpensive, low-quality food,” the report said..
To counter the trend, the diet “has many health benefits, including lower risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, obesity, cancer, and Alzheimer’s disease,” dietician Sharon Palmer said.
Many diets call for the elimination of all meats from everyday meals, which can be very difficult for the dieter to adjust to. However, with the Flexitarian diet, it is possible to still eat the meat, just in moderation.
An example of a flexitarian meal plan:
Breakfast: Apple and Almond Butter Toast or Sunflower Raisin Oatmeal
Lunch: Avocado and Black Bean Wraps or Marinated Garden Lentil Pita
Dinner: Curried Quinoa Salad or Fried Brown Rice with Asparagus and Almonds
Snacks: Pizza, Popcorn or Chocolate Mousse with Raspberries
(Photo by Walmart Corporate via Flickr)
