Healthy Hispanic Food Choices Available

Filed in archive Diet on September 29, 2006

With rising rates of diabetes among Hispanic populations, much attention has been given to traditional food choices, often high in calories and fat. But the delicious fare does not have to be abandoned. Enjoy these treats with more healthy options.

But popular Latino brands, including Iselitas and Goya, are beginning to take note of health issues, adding whole-grain, light, sugar-free, no-cholesterol, reduced-fat, low-trans-fat and low-carb choices to their product lines.

Goya Foods, in New Jersey, makes beans in light as well as no-sodium and low-sodium versions. This fall, the company is launching organic beans, says Olga Luz Tirado, a spokeswoman for the company.

Resources and more information about diabetes are widely available in Spanish, by calling 800-438-5383, or online at:

http://diabetes .niddk.nih.gov/dm/pubs/ hispanicamerican/