In the varied world of today, knowledge of cultural competency in dietetics and nutrition is more crucial than it has been. Still, why does it matter and exactly what does that mean?
Cultural competency is the capacity to respect, comprehend, and engage successfully with people from many backgrounds.
In the subject of nutrition and dietetics, it refers to realizing how cultural values, customs, and beliefs affect people’s food choices, eating patterns, and ideas of health. As one nutritionist says, “food is really personal and connected to one’s identity.” When creating diet programs, a professionally competent in culture considers this.
For someone who eats a typical Asian diet, for example, suggesting a Mediterranean diet could feel strange or out of reach; for some, it would be perfect.
Another dietician adds, “It’s about meeting people where they are.” That entails including traditional foods into sensible diets, providing substitutes honoring religious or cultural customs, and understanding language barriers.
Cultural competency is about awareness of health inequalities as much as eating preferences. Accessing nutritious foods, affording care, or getting enough health information could present special difficulties for certain groups. Nutrition experts have to be aware of these obstacles if they are to deliver really comprehensive and successful treatment.
Basically, embracing cultural competency results in better, more customized treatment as well as eventually healthier communities.
