497 -Module 6 Discussion
Discussion 6
After studying Module 6: Lecture Materials & Resources, discuss the following:
Hyde Pfiefer, a retired 70-year-old German American, has lived in the United States for the last 50 years. A widower of 5 years, Mr. Pfiefer prepares his own meals following his wife’s recipes from the old country. Nine months ago, Mr. Pfiefer was told that his cholesterol is elevated, and he was instructed about a low-fat diet. His most recent test results show his values to be unchanged.
- Discuss the meaning of food in the German culture.
- Using the predominant health beliefs of people of German ancestry, how might you help Mr. Pfiefer reduce his cholesterol level?
Submission Instructions:
- Your initial post should be at least 500 words, formatted and cited in current APA style with support from at least 2 academic sources. Your initial post is worth 8 points.
Answer:
Food is an integral part of German culture, and it is intertwined with traditions, social gatherings, and family events. In Germany, food is viewed as a way to bring people together, and it is often served in large portions with a focus on quality and fresh ingredients. German cuisine is characterized by hearty, comforting dishes that include meats, potatoes, vegetables, and bread. For example, dishes such as Schweinebraten (roast pork) and Rindfleisch (beef) are staple dishes in German culture.
German people have a strong tradition of home cooking, and recipes are often passed down from generation to generation. These traditional recipes often include high-fat ingredients such as bacon, butter, and cream, which can contribute to elevated cholesterol levels. However, despite the focus on traditional, high-fat foods, there is also a growing interest in healthy eating in Germany, with many German people now making a conscious effort to include more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in their diets.
Given the focus on traditional, high-fat foods in German culture, it may be challenging for Mr. Pfiefer to reduce his cholesterol levels by changing his diet alone. To help Mr. Pfiefer reduce his cholesterol levels, it would be beneficial to educate him about the importance of reducing his intake of saturated and trans fats, which are known to raise cholesterol levels. Encouraging Mr. Pfiefer to switch to healthier cooking methods, such as baking, grilling, or steaming, instead of frying or sautéing, can also help to reduce his cholesterol levels.
Additionally, Mr. Pfiefer could benefit from increasing his physical activity levels, which can help to lower his cholesterol levels. Encouraging him to participate in regular exercise, such as walking, cycling, or swimming, could help him to achieve this goal. Encouraging him to maintain a healthy weight through diet and exercise could also help to lower his cholesterol levels, as excess body weight is a known risk factor for high cholesterol levels.
Incorporating healthy fats, such as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, into Mr. Pfiefer’s diet can also help to reduce his cholesterol levels. For example, he could include foods such as avocados, nuts, and olive oil in his diet, which are rich in these healthy fats. Additionally, including foods high in fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, can help to reduce cholesterol levels.
In conclusion, reducing Mr. Pfiefer’s cholesterol levels will require a combination of dietary changes, increased physical activity, and lifestyle modifications. Education and support will be crucial in helping Mr. Pfiefer to adopt these changes and make them a permanent part of his lifestyle. By incorporating these changes into his daily routine, Mr. Pfiefer can reduce his cholesterol levels and improve his overall health and wellbeing.
References:
- German Food and Recipes. (n.d.). Retrieved February 10, 2023, from https://www.thespruceeats.com/german-food-and-recipes-1447051
- German Cuisine: What to Eat in Germany. (n.d.). Retrieved February 10, 2023, from https://www.visitberlin.de/en/german-cuisine-what-to-eat-in-germany.
