Integrating Dietary Patterns into the Cultural Lifestyle
摘要
The 2020 US census reveals a diverse racial and ethnic makeup across the nation, highlighting the need to address health disparities that impact various demographic groups disproportionately. Chronic conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and obesity, are more prevalent among populations facing adverse social determinants of health. Healthcare providers, in collaboration with registered dietitian nutritionists, can address these disparities by delivering culturally competent medical nutrition therapy (MNT) to improve health outcomes. The Campinha–Bacote Cultural Model and listen, explain, acknowledge, recommend, negotiate (L.E.A.R.N.) framework are effective tools for fostering cultural competence in healthcare. Dietary patterns like the Mediterranean diet, along with regionally specific approaches, can be adapted to suit diverse cultural preferences, supporting health improvements through personalized and culturally relevant nutrition interventions. To optimize outcomes, healthcare professionals should guide patients toward dietary patterns that respect individual preferences and cultural backgrounds, integrating nutrient-dense, affordable food options that align with each patient’s health goals.