Mexican Health Essay

In the United States, Latinos are the largest non-European ethnic group that consists of 25 Latin America nations who primarily speak Spanish. Because of the proximity to Mexico, California and Texas have the largest concentrations of Mexicans in the U.S. However, the Latino population is increasing nationwide as immigrants continue to settle in the United States for greater economic opportunities. Immigrants have a tendency to remain isolated within Latino communities and cling to their cultural heritage. Mexicans fall into three socioeconomic classes: migrant workers, urban barrios, and middle-class Chicanos. The family structure of both Mexicans and Central Americans is tightly knit, as extended families live together or nearby. The father is the head of the household, and the mother is the homemaker. Children and

Strong religious beliefs guide the idea that their health is a gift from God. Illnesses and sickness are considered to come from outside sources and the use of supernatural and folk medicine is common practice. If an ailment cannot be cured using home remedies and prayer, Mexicans seek help from healers known as curanderos or curanderas. A curandero treats all sorts of physical illnesses, yet they specialize in curing diseases caused by supernatural forces such as the evil eye. Children are most susceptible to an infliction caused by the evil eye. Common foods found in Mexico are chili peppers, tomatoes, beans, and corn. Contributions from the Spanish included garlic, onions, rice, sugar cane, and pigs. These Spanish contributions allowed for the creation of new dishes like salsa, refried beans, and beans and rice that we typically associate Mexican food with today. Traditional foods vary throughout the country, yet the staples like tortillas, beans, and squash remain the same. Central Americans staples include corn, beans, squash, tomatoes, fruits, cocoa, and wild