Meanings of food, eating and health among African Nova Scotians: 'certain things aren't meant for Black folk'

Ethnicity & Health
Brenda L Beagan, Gwen E Chapman

Abstract

Most research on food, ethnicity and health in Canada is focused on the dietary acculturation of first of second generation migrants. 'Failure' to adopt nutritional guidelines for healthy eating is generally understood as lack of education or persistence of cultural barriers. In this study we explore the meanings of food, health, and well-being embedded in the food practices of African Nova Scotians, a population with a 400-year history in Canada. Qualitative interviews were conducted with 2 or 3 members of each of 13 families who identified as African Nova Scotian. Interviews asked about eating patterns; the influence of food preferences, health concerns, cost, and culture; perceptions of healthy eating and good eating; how food decisions were made; and changes over time. In addition, research assistants observed a 'typical' grocery shopping trip and one family meal. Participants readily identified what they perceived to be distinctively 'Black ways of eating.' Beyond mainstream nutrition discourses about reduction of chronic disease risk, participants identified three ways of thinking about food, health, and well-being: physical well-being, emphasizing stamina, energy and strength; family and community well-being; and cultura...Continue Reading

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Citations

Nov 28, 2013·Psychology, Health & Medicine·Carla Maria VieiraMaria Isabel Gracia-Arnaiz
Mar 12, 2015·Cadernos de saúde pública·Beatriz GoulãoIsabel do Carmo
Apr 5, 2018·Ecology of Food and Nutrition·Rosanne BlanchetIsabelle Giroux

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