Percepción de la imagen corporal y prácticas alimentarias entre indígenas Mayas de Yucatán, México

Abstract

The objective of this study was to assess body image perception and feeding practices of indigenous Mayan of two different rural areas of Yucatan. Eight men and 2 women from 10 families of the community of Xanlah (corn forming area) and 8 women and 3 men from another community called Mucuyche (Henequen plantation) were selected; height and weight were measured to determine body mass index (BMI). Usual dietary practices and in-depth interviews were done to know their self-image perception. The answers showed similarities in both communities, being “chubby” is part of their cultural context and considered “normal” and food selection was not based on nutritional value, but on the status, recognition and prestige which these foods represent. It´s essential that the nutrition policies are implemented with strategies that are pertinent to the social and cultural context of the country.