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outh Asians are facing an epidemic of diabetes & heart disease. South Asians also
develop heart disease much earlier than most other ethnic groups.
Acid Reflux
Acid reflux disease, also known as GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), is a very
common condition in South Asians. Acid reflux occurs when the acid in the stomach
flows backward into the esophagus, or swallowing tube.
Alcohol Use
It is difficult to stereotype drinking habits among South Asians. However, there are
some recurrent themes that put South Asians at risk for alcohol abuse.
Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)
Dermatitis means inflammation of the skin, while atopic describes a familial tendency
towards developing dermatitis, along with allergies and/or asthma.
Benefits of Fish Oil (Omega-3s)
South Asians frequently have elevated triglycerides (a form of cholesterol) & a high
rate of death from heart attacks. More recent evidence also suggests that omega-3s
also lower blood pressure.
Bloating and Gas
Most gas results from swallowed air & gas produced in the colon by normal bacteria.
Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is extremely common in South Asians. Sedentary lifestyle, poor
diet, & a family history of high blood pressure are contributing factors.
Blood Sugar
South Asians are at a very high risk for diabetes. A fasting blood sugar test is done
after a person fasts for 10 to 12 hours. It determines if you have diabetes or pre-diabetes.
Body Image
aving a healthy, confident body image is vital for any teenager. South Asian teenagers
may face particular challenges in thinking about body image, especially if they have
different features than their friends or others in the American media.
Cancer
Unfortunately, a typical South Asian lifestyle includes many of the foods and lifestyle
habits associated with increased cancer risk.
Cholesterol
Cholesterol disorders are common in South Asians due to a combination of high risk
genetics, diet and a lack of activity. High cholesterol increases the risk of heart
attack and stroke.
Constipation
Bowel movement patterns in children range from 1-2 stools a day to once every 2-3
days. This is normal as long as s/he is passing stools without any pain.
Culture
South Asian teenagers feel different connections to their family culture. Some may
feel uneasy speaking their parents’ language, wearing traditional clothing.
Depression and Anxiety
Large studies have not been done to see how common mental health disorders, such as
depression and anxiety, are among South Asians.
Depression in Women
Studies have shown that women are twice as likely to suffer from depression than men.
This disparity remains constant across race and class. It is important to recognize
that depression is not a sign of weakness or laziness.
Dry Skin
A lack water & natural oils causes dry skin. Dry skin is common in drier climates,
in cold weather & with aging. It's a common condition in South Asians.
Eating Out and Social Events
Tips for Eating Out & Social Events for South Asians (and in general).
Emphasize Healthier Carbohydrates
For better health, choose unrefined carbohydrates, such as whole grains and beans.
Fat
Total dietary fat is the sum of saturated, transfat, monounsaturated & polyunsaturated
fatty acids. Fats not used for immediate energy are stored in adipocytes (fat cells)
in humans.
Fatty Liver
The liver normally contains some fat. However, a fatty liver occurs when more than
10 percent of the liver's weight is made up of fat.
Fiber
Dietary fiber consists of non-digestible carbohydrates & lignin that are intrinsic
& intact in plants.
Fitness
You feel much better emotionally, mentally, and physically when you exercise.
Gestational Diabetes
Learn the risks and treatments for gestational diabetes.
Health Risk Factors
Learn the factors that contribute to disease risk in South Asians.
Healthy Choices
Since South Asians experience heart disease 10-15 years earlier than most ethnic groups,
they need to make their health a priority throughout life.
Indian Myths Explored
Indian Myths explored: from gripe water to ear piercings.
Lactose Intolerance
Up to 90 percent of South Asians may be lactose intolerant. Lactose intolerance, which
is due to the inability to digest milk sugars.
Lowering Cancer Risk Through Lifestyle Changes
Unfortunately, a typical South Asian lifestyle includes many of the foods and lifestyle
habits associated with increased cancer risk.
Mental Health
Mental health influences a person's overall health. Many South Asians underestimate
the importance of mental health & its impact on physical health.
Mental Health Myths
Mental health factors influence every aspect of a person's health. Many South Asians
underestimate the importance of mental health and its impact on physical health. This
section will discuss some common myths about mental health.
Metabolic Syndrome
In cases where lifestyle changes are not sufficient, medications may be indicated
to treat the various components of metabolic syndrome.
Normal Bowel Function
Normal bowel function is defined as the regular passage of soft, formed stools. Proper
bowel function is necessary for the removal of toxins from the body.
Nutrition
What—and how much—to eat and drink for a heart-healthy diet.
Nutrition for Children
South Asians generally develop heart disease an average of 5-10 years early, so child
nutrition is critical for slowing arterial fat build up.
Postpartum Depression
Postpartum depression affects women of all ethnicities, including South Asians. In
fact, South Asian women may be at a higher risk for the condition due to several factors.
Prediabetes in South Asians
Prediabetes is when your blood sugar is higher than normal, but not high enough to
make you diabetic.
Prevention
Since many South Asians develop heart disease at least 10 to 15 years earlier than
most other ethnic groups, screening needs to be done as early as possible.
Relationship Issues and Abuse
Many South Asian women feel a tension between their families’ expectations and their
own desires regarding their health decisions.
Relationships
Relationships are key in the lives of all teenagers. It is important to have honest,
caring friends that you can rely on, and to create strong, open relationships with
family members.
Skin Pigment Disorders
Melanin is the pigment or chemical that contributes to your natural skin color.
Smoking
As a tobacco user, giving up tobacco is the most important thing you can do for your
health & the well-being of your family.
Snacks
Snacks can round out your diet. Look at your own dietary habits and use snacks to
make up any gaps.
Sodium Intake
Limiting Sodium intake is especially important for South Asians with high blood pressure
(salt is sodium chloride).
Stress and Depression
Stress is known to contribute to heart problems & increase risk of death. Emotional
upset, especially anger, is the trigger reported most often for a heart attack. People
with more stress & worries also have more problems after a heart attack.
Type 2 Diabetes
South Asians have a higher risk for Type 2 diabetes, up to 4 times higher than other
ethnic groups due to a combination of genetics & environment.