Being Healthy In Spanish Culture

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Being healthy in Spanish culture is to be fit physically and mentally but most importantly, to live happily with family. A healthy lifestyle is living happy while also practicing good eating and exercise habits. In hispanic culture, they consider family life a core cultural value. A family is highly valued and viewed as a source of joy and also for support. They are very family oriented and pick up success from parents and family members experiences. Elderly members of the family raise the younger members to be respectful, understand the importance of honor, and the meaning of good manners. Greeting each other with kiss on the check and hugging is great part of demonstrating togetherness and showing respect. A family unit is the foundation, having the unconditional love from them and supporting each other in life and celebrating life's moments. Spanish people define healthy eating as a diet with more fruits and vegetables. Traditionally, meals in Spanish culture was a continental breakfast, a large middle of the day meal, and small supper. Now many of them eat a large breakfast, a fast food lunch, and a large dinner. Hispanics tolerate fast-food, but some prefer their native food and home cooking. In hispanic culture today, there are fast-food places that …show more content…

As for health, Hispanics are most likely and are in greater risk of getting heart disease and cancer. Heart disease is the number 1 killer for all Americans and stroke is the fifth leading cause of death. For Hispanics and Latinos, however, are faced with even higher risks of cardiovascular diseases because of high blood pressure, obesity and diabetes. Hypertension is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke among Hispanics. With simple life changes, they can greatly reduce chances of getting any of these diseases. Although they can make changes to be healthy in their life, some Hispanics have a hard time making those