Nutrition and gastronomy in aragón

Abstract

Objectives: review the knowledge on the nutritional situation of the Aragonese population and on Aragón’s own gastronomy as necessary elements for the welfare and health of its population. Methods: literature review in relation to the subject. Results: a gastronomy characteristic of Aragón is identified. The main finding identified on the literature review is to do with the historical evolution of the population in the Aragonese territory. At present, the population tends to concentrate in provincial urban centers, mainly in Zaragoza, where the food tradition tends to be diluted by external influences. The health authorities qualify quality foods by PGI (Protected Geographical Indication) certifications in wines and oils, as well as vegetables and meats. Aragón is the fifth county in food consumption per inhabitant in Spain with the highest consumption of potatoes and fresh vegetables from Spain. Meat consumption is high and are those who have a greater energy intake from lipids of all the autonomous communities. These data are related to the fact that most men are overweight or obese. Conclusions: there is a lack of updated studies that assess the nutritional status of the population in Aragón. The last study was promoted by the National Pharmacists Vocalic of Nutrition of the CGCOF (General Council of Pharmaceutical Associations of Spain) throughout Spain for adults who perform some kind of physical activity. The nutritional education of the population must be improved so that they are able to choose rations and foods that promote their health and well-being and integrate traditional gastronomy into their daily diet as part of their cultural heritage.