What people eat and drink affects heart and brain health and is essential for managing health conditions like blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol. Hispanic adults are at higher risk for Type 2 diabetes and have some of the highest prevalence of poorly controlled blood pressure,[1] two major risk factors for heart disease.[2] As a champion for health equity, today the American Heart Association, the leading global voluntary health organization dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke for all, launched 'Together at the Table/ Juntos En La Mesa.'
The campaign is designed to inspire Hispanic/Latino communities to cook and eat a heart-healthy diet that celebrates their cultural flavors while improving their families' health. Food contributes to a person's physical and mental well-being while expressing cultural identity through preparation, sharing and consumption[3]. Together at the Table/ Juntos En La Mesa will provide tips for healthier cooking, tools and free recipes geared for family meals.
The Hispanic/Latino community is disproportionately affected by heart disease and related health issues due to longstanding systemic barriers, such as a historic lack of access to health care and nutritious foods.
"Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death in the Hispanic/Latino community, but it is preventable," said Sylvia Meléndez Klinger, a nutritionist and volunteer expert with the American Heart Association. "We want to empower families to make healthier choices and celebrate their cultural heritage through delicious and nutritious meals. The 'Together at the Table/ Juntos En La Mesa' campaign will provide the bilingual resources and support needed to make that possible."
Eating healthy is not always easy. Together at the Table/ Juntos En La Mesa can help the Hispanic/Latino community eat better without sacrificing flavor or culture.
"Food is an expression of culture and plays a crucial role in our physical and mental well-being," said Sylvia Meléndez Klinger, a nutritionist and volunteer expert with the American Heart Association. "The 'Together at the Table/ Juntos En La Mesa' campaign will help families to make small changes in the kitchen that will lead to big impacts on their health."
To learn more about the 'Together at the Table/ Juntos En La Mesa' campaign or to access educational resources and support, visit heart.org/nutricionytufamilia.
