Chances are, you’ve probably heard of or read something about the Mediterranean diet at some point.
However, this is not true, as other eating patterns are also linked with health outcomes.
Also recognizing this isOldways, a food and nutrition nonprofit focused on improving public health through heritage-based diets.
Photo: Getty Images. Design: Tambra Stevenson.
The food pyramid helps conceptualize the diet’s recommendations.
What Comprises the African Heritage Diet?
To help conceptualize the diet’s recommendations, Oldways created the African Heritage Diet Pyramid.
Courtesy ofOldways. EatingWell design.
The pyramid also emphasizes flavoring foods with herbs, spices and sauces rather than high amounts of salt.
Atop the pyramid are pies and other sugar-sweetened desserts that are best eaten sparingly or during times of celebration.
This inclusion further solidifies the African Heritage Diet’s legitimacy as a healthy eating plan that promotes good health.
How to Get Started
Looking to include more African Heritage Diet foods throughout your week?
The good news is that you’re likely already eating many foods that are part of this eating pattern.
Most of these ingredients can be found either in your pantry or at your nearest food market.
