Courtney LeDuc – Cultural Diversity DIET 4470 Spring 2024

GREECE
Capital: Athens | Population: 10,497,595

Relevant Health Statistics

Adult Obesity Prevalence

24.9% (2016)

Unemployment Rate

14.8% (2021 est.)

Population Below Poverty Line 17.9%

(2018 est.)

Average Household Food

Expenditures

17.1% (2018 est.)

Greece, renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine, offers a unique insight into
Mediterranean living. The Greek population boasts strong familial bonds, a deep-rooted respect for tradition, and
a zest for life that shows up in every aspect of their culture, including their dietary habits.

Values and Character Traits

Familial Bonds: Family plays a central role in Greek culture, with gatherings around the table being a common
occurrence. Meals are often seen as a time for bonding and sharing stories.

Hospitality: Greeks are known for their warm hospitality and generosity. Visitors are often greeted with open
arms and offered a feast of homemade dishes.

Celebration of Tradition: Tradition holds significant importance in Greek society, with many customs and rituals
being passed down through generations. This reverence for tradition extends to food, where recipes are often
cherished family heirlooms.

Health Trends and Risks

Mediterranean Diet: Greece is known for its adherence to the Mediterranean diet, which is rich in fruits,
vegetables, whole grains, olive oil, and lean proteins like fish and legumes. This diet has been associated with
numerous health benefits, including reduced risk of heart disease and improved longevity.

Physical Activity: Engaging in physical activity, such as walking, hiking, or playing sports, is a common part of
Greek lifestyle, contributing to overall health and well-being.

Obesity Concerns: While traditional Greek cuisine is generally healthy, modernization and the influence of Western
fast food have led to an increased in obesity rates and related health issues among certain segments of the
population.

Food History, Habits, Traditions, and Choices

Ancient Roots: Greek cuisine has deep historical roots, influenced by ancient civilizations such as the Minoans,
Mycenaeans, and Greeks. Staples live olives, grapes, wheat, and honey have been cultivated for thousands of
years.

Meze Culture: Meze is short for “mezedes”. A variety of small dishes which are often shared among friends and
family. Typically enjoyed as starters or paired with wine and eaten as a casual meal. Meze can include a range of
items such as tzatziki, dolmades, fava bean dip, and grilled octopus.

Orthodox Christian Traditions: Greek Orthodox Christians observe over 180 fasting days per year as part of their
religious customs. The Greek Orthodox Church is a major institution in Greece, with more than 90% of the
population practicing this faith. During fasting periods, most animal products are avoided, except some seafood.

Mealtimes: Traditional mealtimes for Greeks typically involve a light breakfast in the morning, a main meal around
midday or early afternoon, followed by a light afternoon snack, and a lighter dinner in the early or late evening.
These mealtimes are often centered around family and social gatherings, emphasizing the importance of food as a
means of connection and enjoyment in Greek culture.

Sources: https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/greece, https://foodandnutrition.org/from-the-magazine/my-global-table-greece/

Images from: https://kapnosdc.com/traditional-greek-foods; https://www.chefdenise.com/all/foods-to-eat-in-greece-traditional-greek-dishes
 Popular Traditional Greek Cuisine

Spanakopita – Spinach & Dolmades – Stuffed Grape Moussaka – Eggplant & Taramasalata – Appetizer
Feta Pie Leaves Meat Casserole Fish Roe Dip

Baklava – Sweet Pastry Horiatiki – Traditional Greek Fasolada – White Bean Soup Souvlaki – Grilled Meat
Dessert Salad Skewers

UNDERSTANDING GREEK CULTURE AND DIETARY HABITS PROVIDES VALUABLE INSIGHTS FOR DIETITIANS AND HEALTHCARE
PROFESSIONALS WORKING WITH THIS POPULATION. BY APPRECIATING THE IMPORTANCE OF TRADITION, PROMOTING THE
MEDITERRANEAN DIET, AND ADDRESSING MODERN HEALTH CHALLENGES, WE CAN SUPPORT THE HEALTH AND WELL-BEING OF
THE GREEK COMMUNITY WHILE CELEBRATING ITS RICH CULINARY HERITAGE

Sources: https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/greece, https://foodandnutrition.org/from-the-magazine/my-global-table-greece/

Images from: https://kapnosdc.com/traditional-greek-foods; https://www.chefdenise.com/all/foods-to-eat-in-greece-traditional-greek-dishes