Search Results (2)

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is the leading cause of chronic liver disease, linked closely to metabolic syndrome and rising obesity rates. Affecting up to 37% of the global adult population, MASLD prevalence is exceptionally high among individuals of Hispanic descent, with genetic factors such as the PNPLA3 gene mutation playing a significant role. The subject of this review is the traditional Mesoamerican “milpa” diet, which includes unprocessed local crops like maize, beans, pumpkins, chili, and tomatoes and may represent a strategy to combat MASLD. Current treatment recommendations emphasize weight loss; a reduced intake of saturated fats, processed meats, and added sugars; and increased physical activity. The milpa diet, rich in protein, fiber, vitamins, and bioactive compounds, aligns with these recommendations and could potentially mitigate MASLD by preventing liver fat accumulation and fibrosis. This narrative review focuses on available preclinical and clinical studies adopting the milpa diet as a culturally relevant, nutritious, and sustainable dietary approach in preventing and treating MASLD. More clinical studies are needed to develop precise nutritional quantitative recommendations and guidelines. Full article

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) disproportionately affects minorities in the United States, including the Hispanic/Latine population, and is a public health concern in Latin American countries. An emphasis on healthy dietary patterns, including the Mediterranean and the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diets, has been suggested as they are associated with a lower incidence of CKD, slower CKD progression, and lower mortality in kidney failure. However, their applicability may be limited in people from Latin America. The Dieta de la Milpa (Diet of the Cornfield) was recently described as the dietary pattern of choice for people from Mesoamerica (Central Mexico and Central America). This dietary pattern highlights the intake of four plant-based staple foods from this geographical region, corn/maize, common beans, pumpkins/squashes, and chilies, complemented with seasonal and local intake of plant-based foods and a lower intake of animal-based foods, collectively classified into ten food groups. Limited preclinical and clinical studies suggest several health benefits, including cardiometabolic health, but there is currently no data concerning CKD. In this narrative review, we describe and highlight the potential benefits of the Dieta de la Milpa in CKD, including acid-base balance, protein source, potassium and phosphorus management, impact on the gut microbiota, inflammation, and cultural appropriateness. Despite these potential benefits, this dietary pattern has not been tested in people with CKD. Therefore, we suggest key research questions targeting measurement of adherence, feasibility, and effectiveness of the Dieta de la Milpa in people with CKD. Full article