Vamos Para o Brazil! Eat Like the Locals (but Healthier!) During the Rio Olympics

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By Chef Leticia Moreinos

SaludToday Guest Blogger

As a native of Brazil, I’m thrilled that Brazilian culture and food will get an international spotlight as Rio de Janeiro opens its doors for two weeks to athletes and spectators in celebration of the XXXI Olympic Games in August in the Cidade Maravilhosa (Marvelous City).

Like many Latin American countries, food is an important part of Brazilian culture.

As a child growing up in Rio, I have fond memories of accompanying my mother and grandmother to the markets in search of the freshest fruits and vegetables and the finest cuts of meat. The kitchen was (and still is) the center of family gatherings and because of this, my passion for food and cooking was born.

Throughout my career as a chef, Brazilian cuisine has been the focus of my repertoire. From churrasco and feijoada to brigadeiros and fresh smoothies, Brazilian food encompasses every flavor, ingredient and texture imaginable.

The problem with Brazilian food, however, is that while it’s incredibly tasty, it’s not always healthy.

Many years ago, my grandfather was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes and it was a real wake-up call for my family and how we approached mealtime. To support my grandfather, we made modifications to our diet, which meant making changes to traditional meals to make them more nutritious. We quickly learned that it’s possible to enjoy traditional dishes and maintain flavor, but remain healthy while doing so.

Unfortunately, my grandfather passed away due to complications from type 2 diabetes, but educating Latinos about healthy eating has remained a passion.

For the past few years, I’ve traveled the country with America’s Diabetes Challenge, an educational campaign from Merck and the American Diabetes Association to encourage those living with type 2 diabetes to work with their doctor to set and reach their A1C goal, and to start an open dialogue about the common challenges people living with the disease face. Through the program, I’ve talked with Latinos across the country about healthy eating and developed diabetes-friendly recipes that are not only healthy, but retain their original taste and flair – much like the flair of my native Rio.

Therefore, in honor of the Rio Olympics, I wanted to share some recipes that you can try at home to experience the taste of Rio, while staying as healthy as the athletes competing.

Enjoy and saúde!

Recipes:

Pineapple and Manchego Skewers

Mango, Smoked Salmon and Arugula Salad

Black Bean and Turkey Sausage Soup

Arroz con Leche

Papaya and Orange Sparkler

For additional recipes or to share your type 2 diabetes story, visit www.AmericasDiabetesChallenge.com or check out www.ChefLeticia.com.