New World Syndrome

New World Syndrome is a set of non-communicable diseases brought on by consumption of junk food and a sedentary lifestyle, especially common to the indigenous peoples of the "New World" (i.e. of the Americas). Indigenous peoples of Oceania and Circumpolar peoples, and perhaps other populations of Asiatic origin are similarly affected and perhaps genetically predisposed.[1] It is characterized by obesity, heart disease, diabetes, hypertension, and shortened life span.

Causes

New World Syndrome is linked to a change from a traditional diet and exercise to a Western diet and a sedentary lifestyle. The traditional occupations of indigenous people—such as fishing, farming, and hunting—tended to involve constant activity, whereas modern office jobs do not. The introduction of modern transportation such as automobiles also decreased physical exertion.[2] Meanwhile, Western foods which are rich in fat, salt, sugar, and refined starches are also imported into countries. The amount of carbohydrates in diets increases.[3]

See also

Related:

References

  1. ↑ Gracey, Michael (1995). "New World syndrome in Western Australian aborigines". Clinical and Experimental Pharmacology and Physiology. 22 (3): 220–225. doi:10.1111/j.1440-1681.1995.tb01985.x. ISSN 0305-1870.
  2. ↑ Shell, Ellen Ruppel (2001). "New World Syndrome - Spam and turkey tails have turned Micronesians into Macronesians. A case study of how fatty Western plenty is taking a disastrous toll on people in developing countries". The Atlantic. 50. ISSN 1072-7825.
  3. ↑ Lambert, Lorelei (1999). "The Kerr Dam: Collisions of Cultures". Keepers of the Central Fire: Issues in Ecology for Indigenous Peoples. Sudbury, MA: Jones & Bartlett Publishers. p. 46. ISBN 9780763709235. OCLC 44955349. With the expansion of the dominant culture, the people of the Flathead Nation grew increasingly dependent on a cash economy, and the dietary and health changes that resulted from an increase of carbohydrates in the diet. Today, diabetes, cardiac problems, hypertension, and the plethora of disease caused by obesity plague many members of the Flathead Nation (Personal conversation with Roy Big Crane).

External links

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