Ethic Food Guide Pyramids

As the world becomes more global, are becoming increasingly aware of other culture’s customs and cuisines. While the standard American food Guide Pyramid is applicable to the American lifestyle, other cultures embrace different nutritional needs. In some cases, this is because of access to different types of foods due to climate and terrain; in other cases, it may be because of different customs and traditions. For this reason, food guide pyramids have been created for a variety of populations. For example, the Latin American Diet Pyramid emphasizes fruits, vegetables, beans, and grains. Notice that specific portions are not provided for each category. The color key, instead, specifies which types of foods should be eaten at specific intervals. For the Latin diet, fruits, vegetables, beans, grains, and nuts are to be eaten at every meal. Fish and shellfish, plant oils, dairy, and poultry are to be eaten daily or less frequently, and eggs, meats, and sweets are to be eaten on occasion, or in small quantities.

The Mediterranean Diet Pyramid emphasizes daily consumption of carbohydrates such as breads, pasta, couscous, polenta, grains, and potatoes; also to be eaten daily, but slightly higher on the pyramid, are fruits, beans and nuts, and vegetables; still higher in the daily category are olive oil(in varying amounts), cheese, and yogurt. Foods to be eaten a few times per week, from bottom to top, are fish, poultry, eggs, and sweets. Redmeats should be eaten only a few times per month. Wine can be consumed in moderation.

The Asian pyramid places the most emphasis on rice, grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, seeds, and vegetable oils. Dairy, fish, and shellfish are daily options. However, sweets, eggs, and poultry are recommended weekly, and meats, monthly.

Despite the recommendations for the various cultures, these are not necessarily recommended for the American diet. Each pyramid is applicable to its specific population. Each population has its specific needs. These pyramids accommodate both.