Welcome to Afghan Dastarkhwan: Eating Healthy on a Budget in the United States
Today we will learn about Food in the U.S. and what to expect.
Before we begin, let’s start with a story.
As a child, Rabia would spend her winter holidays at her grandmother's house in the village.
They would make dishes like Shorba together.
While it simmered, her aunt would also make fresh bread, and they would all gather around to enjoy warm, baked bread with the hot Shorba in their bowls.
The aroma of the meat and spices would fill the room, making Rabia's mouth water in anticipation.
After coming to the US, one of the things Rabia missed most was these moments of cooking and connection, and the traditional Afghan foods from her childhood.
Like Rabia, you may have noticed how different the food and food traditions are in the United States.
Highly processed food and fast food
Many people in the United States eat more highly processed or fast food than people in Afghanistan.
Highly processed food is when oil, sugar, salt, and other ingredients or chemicals are added to food and then packaged.
Fast food is mass-produced food that is shipped pre-made and usually frozen to food chains around the US.
Because it was already made, someone can order and receive their food quickly. Much of this food is also highly processed.
Health Concerns
When people eat unhealthy food regularly, like fast food and highly processed food, it can cause them to develop serious health issues like diabetes and hypertension.
Diabetes
Diabetes is a serious health condition that affects how your body turns food into energy.
People can prevent most types of diabetes and manage it by eating healthy, exercising, and controlling weight.
Hypertension
Hypertension is high blood pressure.
High blood pressure can lead to heart attacks and strokes.
People can prevent and manage high blood pressure by eating healthy, exercising, and controlling weight.
Be sure and watch all the videos in our video series on eating healthy on a budget in the US.
28 авг 2024
