Healthy Eating Habits In Jamaica

Eating healthy is a major concern around the world, whether it is reducing intake of unhealthy foods or supplying underprivileged areas with an adequate amount of nutritional food. Kari Samuda, minister of industry, investment and commerce of Jamaica, has expressed concerns about obesity and unhealthy eating habits in Jamaica. In addition, the Jamaican Information Service encourages the residents of Jamaica to alter their eating habits in order to reduce their risk for developing certain medical conditions.

Obesity

Obesity is a great concern in Jamaica. One of the issues identified is the lack of education provided to Jamaican residents about unhealthy intake of fats and sugars, portion sizes, and minimal intake of fresh fruits and vegetables. If you live in Jamaica and want to better manage your health, work with your physician to identify your target weight. Generally, most American adults follow a 2,000-calorie diet, but a doctor can advise you on your recommended caloric limit, appropriate portion sizes and the types of foods you should include in your diet. Although sizing of portions may vary, most national health organizations advocate a diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, plant- and animal-based protein, dairy, and minimal amounts of fat and sugar. Opting to eat these foods fresh, lightly grilled or baked can also help you to keep your caloric intake within a healthy range.

Cholesterol

In addition to obesity, high cholesterol is another concern for Jamaican residents. Health organizations such as the U.S. Department of Agriculture recommends limiting your intake of cholesterol to 300 mg of cholesterol per day. Limit your intake of animal-based proteins because they contain some of the highest concentrations of cholesterol, particularly if they are fried. Supplementing your diet with fruits, vegetables and whole grains helps you to keep your cholesterol intake within a healthy range. When consumed regularly, these foods can also help to lower your cholesterol levels.

High Blood Pressure

The risk of developing high blood pressure, formally known as hypertension, is often raised when you are obese or have increased cholesterol levels. As a result, it is important to implement lifestyle changes to get your blood pressure levels to a healthy range. Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury, shown as mm HG. It is recorded with two numbers that are measurements of systolic and diastolic pressure. For example, an ideal blood pressure measurement is 120/80 mm HG. Blood pressure measurements of 140 to 159 over 90 to 99 are considered high and may require medications in addition to lifestyle changes to reduce them to a healthy range.

Diabetes

If you are Jamaican, you should also be mindful of your intake of sugars and carbohydrates and how they can contribute to your risk for developing diabetes. Maintaining a healthy weight and reducing your intake of added sugar can help to prevent diabetes or help you to manage your diabetes symptoms. Fruits are a good choice because they contain natural sugars and carbohydrates instead of desserts and beverages, which have high amounts of added sugar. In addition, aim to exercise a minimum of 30 minutes per day to strengthen your body, increase your energy level and your body's metabolism.