Immigrants across the United States frequently reminisce about fond memories of their grandmothers cooking for significant holidays. This could encompass an abuela in Mexico crafting bread for Día de los Muertos, a bubbe whipping up kugel for Hanukkah, a nani in India preparing sweets for Diwali, or a nonna in Italy baking Christmas cookies. These festive foods, which are typically reserved for celebrations like weddings and cultural holidays, often find their way into the everyday diets of immigrant communities in the U.S. However, health experts contend that while preserving cultural traditions is essential, it may not support a healthy lifestyle.
Experts emphasize the importance of finding a balance between celebrating heritage and maintaining health. This involves being mindful of what foods are consumed and in what amounts, redirecting the focus of celebrations toward gathering with loved ones instead of solely on food. Dr. Latha Palaniappan, co-founder of the Stanford Center for Asian Health Research and Education, noted that “festive foods are traditionally consumed during special celebrations and holidays in many cultures,” but in immigrant families, these foods may frequently become everyday items.
Her investigations reveal a concerning trend concerning the health risks tied to frequent consumption of calorie-rich festival dishes that are high in sugars, fats, and carbohydrates. “Transitioning from infrequent to regular consumption of these rich foods can elevate the risk of developing health issues like diabetes, heart disease, and obesity,” Palaniappan stated. Despite educational initiatives to inform populations about the dangers of consuming refined carbs and sugary treats, studies indicate a heightened risk of heart disease and Type 2 diabetes among Asian groups.
Health professionals aim to honor cultural customs while advocating for healthy eating practices, promoting moderation by suggesting that celebratory dishes should be enjoyed sparingly, ideally only for special occasions rather than at every gathering. The coming holiday season, commencing on November 1 with Diwali and Día de los Muertos, is a time when overindulgence commonly occurs. This period swiftly progresses through Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Hanukkah, making it a prime opportunity for excessive eating.
Día de los Muertos is becoming increasingly recognized in the U.S., and Diwali is gaining popularity, primarily because of the considerable Mexican and Indian immigrant populations. According to September research published by the Pew Research Center, 23% of immigrants in the U.S. in 2022 were from Mexico, with India being the second-largest source at 6%. Dr. Sandra Soto, an assistant professor at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, emphasized that festive foods are not inherently good or bad; rather, it is their frequency of consumption that matters. She observed that these foods often signify culture and tradition, which can lead to excessive eating—and advocates for balancing enjoyable eating habits with health.
Soto remarked on cultural eating patterns, particularly in Colombian customs where finishing everything on one’s plate is customary, leading to overeating regardless of the food’s healthfulness. She emphasizes that celebrations, whether for Día de los Muertos or Diwali, should center around family and friends rather than merely the food. “While food is significant, it doesn’t have to be the focal point; enjoying the company is what truly matters,” she explained.
Furthermore, Soto champions the idea of integrating physical activity into holiday routines to foster social connections. For instance, her family enjoys hiking on significant days such as Thanksgiving. “When discussing exercise, people often envision going to the gym, but it’s essential to remember that movement can range from casual walking to more structured activities,” Soto highlighted, advocating for accessible forms of physical engagement.
Dr. Sonia Vega-López, a nutrition professor at Arizona State University, pointed out that individuals should not feel they must forgo deeply entrenched culinary traditions. Instead, she encourages adopting methods to make diets healthier, with one major focus being the reduction of added sugars. “Reducing sugars is a vital message for all communities, not just Hispanic individuals,” she noted, sharing findings that show a willingness among Hispanic families to revive traditional cooking methods rich in vegetables and wholesome ingredients.
Palaniappan has been actively working to preserve cultural culinary traditions while promoting healthier practices. Her initiatives have produced a cookbook that offers traditional Indian recipes with adjusted amounts of sugar, salt, and fat, coupled with lessons on portion control and exercise, which can aid in managing blood sugar levels. “These strategies help maintain cultural practices while reinforcing health-conscious habits throughout the year,” she remarked, looking to enhance how people celebrate special occasions while prioritizing their well-being.