Traditional Asian diets include little or no dairy products. This limits the amount of calcium consumed since milk and other dairy products contain high amounts of calcium and are the usual food group to provide this essential nutrient. Modern version of this diet presented to the Western world generally include low-fat or reduced-fat dairy products in moderation. Pregnant or nursing women will need to take calcium supplements to insure that they have enough calcium. Dieters who do not wish to consume dairy products may also decide to take calcium supplements. In Asia, most people are far more active than typical Westerners. Their activities often involve lifting heavy objects and manual labor. Weight bearing exercise has been shown to strengthen bones and my offset the lower amounts of calcium consumed.
The Asian diet is a wholesome option for most healthy adults. However, children and pregnant women may not receive the proper balance of nutrition needed. Children may need the calcium dairy products provide and increased fat consumption during stages of rapid growth and development. Pregnant women need to insure sufficient intake of.
QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR DOCTOR
- Is this diet appropriate for me?
- What are the potential benefits for a person of my age, sex, and lifestyle in adopting an Asian diet?
- What are the potential health risks, if any, of this diet for me as an individual?
- Will I need any dietary supplements if I follow the Asian diet?
- How much exercise should I do each week in conjunction with this diet?
calories and other nutrients that meats, fats and dairy products provide
Risks
A traditional Asian diet is low in dairy products and may, therefore, be low in calcium. Diets low in calcium can lead to osteoporosis, a weakening or the bones. Women are especially vulnerable to this disease after menopause when lower levels of hormones weaken bones as well. Similarly, pregnant women and children have higher calcium requirements. To insure that adequate amounts of calcium are in the diet, a calcium supplement may be needed or the addition of low-fat dairy products.
Attempting to follow an Asian diet by eating at Asian style restaurants in the West may not be successful or healthy since many of these restaurants have adapted to Western tastes by adding high levels of fats and sodium. To enjoy the benefits of Asian style eating, it may be necessary to prepare the foods at home. Though many communities enjoy authentic Asian restaurants and it may be possible to find healthy Asian cuisine.
