Original, Forward-Thinking Trainings on Latine Food and Culture for Health Professionals

Do you know if nixtamal is considered a whole grain? What about the impact of serving beans with white rice?

Through my engaging and informative presentations, you will gain a deeper understanding of Latin cuisine, its cultural significance, and the unique nutrition benefits it can offer your clients.

 

My main goal as a presenter is to challenge the notion that we are the
sole experts on nutrition. By highlighting the nutritional benefits of
Latin food and traditions, I aim to help attendees realize that there is
much to learn from this rich and diverse culinary culture. My hope is
that, by the end of my presentations, attendees will leave with a
newfound appreciation for the valuable lessons that Latin food can teach
us about nutrition.

Read About my Offerings

Level 1: Introduction Topics

Raíces at the Table

My original, signature presentation.

This presentation offers a broad-level overview of the state of nutrition and nutrition-related conditions among Latines in the United States, dispels common myths about Latine food culture, and provides a broad level overview of regional cuisine across Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean. Finally, strategies for basic nutrition coaching and respectful communication specific to Latine audiences are presented.

Raíces at the Table is a perfect introductory level presentation for dietitians and other health care professionals wishing to better serve their Latine patients.

Time: 1 hour, including 10 minutes Q&A

Level 2: Intermediate Topics

Beyond MyPlate: Adapting Standard Nutrition Recommendations to Latine Food

The Plate (“MyPlate”) is one of the most popular tools for nutrition education used by dietitians and public health organizations, but is the Plate leaving your patients from other cultures behind? 

In this session we will explore the cultural acceptability of the plate method, especially as it pertains to Latine audiences. This will include commentary on the role of whole grains and dairy products in the Plate method versus in Latine diets, as well as how cultural differences in preparing vegetables and plating and serving meals may be impacting your clients’ perception of the plate method. Information presented will include comparison between the U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans and Latine dietary patterns, research on lactose tolerance in Latine populations, and an exploration of traditional Latine cooking techniques. Finally, advice on how to communicate and present the Plate method to adapt to differing cultural needs will be discussed.

Generational Dynamics in Latine Nutrition

This presentation explores how nutrition, eating, and perceptions of health differ based on acculturation to the United States, as well as country of birth (U.S.-born Latines vs Latines who immigrated to the United States).

Additional this presentation will discuss the role of the family in Latine food culture and how dietitians can help patients navigate these dynamics.

Issues discussed include:

  • Acculturation and its impact on health

  • Differences in food preferences based on time spent in US

  • The role of multigenerational living in nutrition

  • How gender roles may play a role in patients’ progress

Ready to get started?

Request a quote  for your speaking opportunity using the contact form below:

Upcoming Talks

  • March 24 – IAND Spring Assembly: Adapting Standard Nutrition Guidelines to Latine Food
  • March 29 – Food Bank of Santa Barbara County: Guest Speaker, Food as Medicine Webinar Series
  • April 14 – TX AND Annual Conference: Water Insecurity and Nutrition in Mexican-American Communities
  • April 14 – KSAND Annual Conference: Cultural Humility Panel (Adapting Standard Nutrition Guidelines to  Latine Food)
  • April 27 – CANDAC Annual Conference: Navigating Beverage Options in Latinx Communities
  • May 11 – Diversify Dietetics Annual Conference: Navigating Beverage Options in Mexican-American Commnities
  • June 22 – TX WIC Nutrition and Breastfeeding Conference: Beyond MyPlate: Adapting Standard Nutrition Guidelines to Latine Cultural Foods
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