Food as Identity and Connection

Diabetes Awareness Month is a meaningful reminder of how many lives are touched by diabetes. It’s also an opportunity to talk about something deeply personal to many of us: the cultural foods that shape who we are. Food is more than fuel. It’s memory, family, comfort, and belonging. For many people, diabetes care becomes stressful when they’re told they must give up the foods that connect them to their communities. The good news is that cultural foods can fit into diabetes care, and they can do so beautifully.

Understanding the Harm of “Don’t Eat That” Messages

Traditional dietary advice for diabetes has often leaned toward restriction. People are frequently told to avoid staple foods like rice, roti, tortillas, plantains, injera, noodles, or dumplings. While well-intentioned, this advice can feel discouraging, culturally insensitive, or even unattainable. When food guidance erases culture, people may feel misunderstood or disconnected from their care plan. This can result in guilt, frustration, or avoidance of diabetes education altogether.

A Culturally Respectful Approach to Eating

A better path begins with respect. It means seeing cultural foods not as barriers to health, but as valuable parts of a person’s life. Dietitians and diabetes educators are increasingly embracing flexible, culturally informed care. This includes understanding traditional meal patterns, celebrations, cooking styles, and the symbolic meaning of certain foods. It also means considering access, affordability, and family roles in meal preparation.

Practical Ways Cultural Foods Can Fit

Integrating cultural foods into diabetes care isn’t about eliminating traditions. It’s about exploring balance and realistic adjustments. Small changes may include pairing carbohydrate-rich foods with protein or fibre, adjusting portions in ways that still feel satisfying, or experimenting with cooking methods while keeping flavours intact. These gentle, culturally aligned strategies help people maintain their traditions while supporting their health goals.

The Importance of Feeling Seen and Respected

When people feel understood, they’re more likely to feel empowered in their health journey. Asking questions like “What foods bring you comfort?” or “What does a typical family meal look like?” opens the door to collaborative care. This approach honours heritage and creates a sense of partnership rather than pressure. It recognizes that food is tied to identity and that no one should feel they must choose between culture and health.

All Foods Can Fit: Reframing the Narrative

The heart of this message is simple: all foods can fit into diabetes care. Cultural foods are not obstacles—they’re opportunities to build sustainable habits grounded in joy and connection. With thoughtful guidance and cultural awareness, individuals can continue enjoying the foods they love while supporting their overall well-being.

Closing Reflections for Diabetes Awareness Month

As we acknowledge Diabetes Awareness Month, let’s celebrate the diversity of cultures and cuisines within our communities. By embracing cultural eating in diabetes care, we support dignity, inclusiveness, and long-term success. Food should bring comfort, pride, and connection. With the right support, it absolutely can.

Taking the Next Step in Your Care!

If you’re living with diabetes and want support that honours your cultural foods, you don’t have to navigate this alone. Consider partnering with one of our Registered dietitians and Certified Diabetes Educator who understands cultural eating and takes a flexible, non-judgmental approach. Book  a free discovery call with Andrea or Roshni today. Together, you can build a plan that supports your blood sugars, protects your health, and keeps the foods you love firmly on your table.

Click the link to book a free discovery call with Andrea or Roshni today!