Abstract

Immigrants face many challenges when transitioning to life in a new country, and access to their traditional food can assist in facilitating a smoother transition. The purpose of this study was to explore the impact that access to traditional food has on the perception of health and well-being of Jamaican immigrants to the United States. Methods: Using a qualitative descriptive design, twenty Jamaicans (10 in New York; 10 in Utah) participated in semi-structured interviews, which were transcribed and analyzed. Results: Participants expressed a preference for traditional food. New York participants had greater access to Jamaican food and rated their health status more favorably than Utah participants. The change in diet and a decrease in activity after migration was identified as having a negative impact on health. Access to Jamaican food seems to affect well-being. Discussion: Healthcare providers should encourage a healthy traditional diet for better health outcomes among immigrants.

Degree

College and Department

Nursing; Nursing

Rights

https://lib.byu.edu/about/copyright/