Addressing Gut Health to Prevent Stomach Cancer: Leading Chronic Diseases in Asian-Americans

Asian Americans, including Pacific Islanders, are often perceived as one of the healthiest minority groups in the U.S. The majority of Asians in the U.S. are still first generation immigrants — 57% of Asians living in the U.S. were born in their homeland, and 27% are still second generation immigrants. In this sense, they remain connected to their roots and generational dietary preferences, where food is thought of as medicine.

Culturally, health-conscious practices like portion control, fresh and fermented foods and balanced portions of meals are integral to the traditional Asian diet. However, increased consumption of processed foods in the U.S., coupled with language barriers and hesitation towards Western healthcare, has led to higher rates of chronic diseases within this population.

The rise of Chronic Diseases in Asian-americans

Despite the health benefits of traditional diets, Asian Americans have seen a rise in chronic diseases, particularly in type 2 diabetes. The prevalence of diabetes in Asian American communities is higher than the national average, largely due to increased sugar and processed food consumption. Additionally, this ethnic group is less likely to seek medical treatment and has the highest rate of untreated medical conditions.

Cancer and heart disease are two of the leading causes of death among Asian Americans. While the general U.S. population sees breast cancer as the most common cancer, Asian/Pacific Islander women are 20% less likely to have breast cancer. However, they are twice as likely to suffer from stomach cancer, while both men and women in this group have a higher risk of liver cancer and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Heart disease is another major cause of mortality in this population.

Addressing Gut Health & Diet

A major contributor to the rise in chronic diseases among Asian Americans is gut health imbalance. Traditional Asian diets often rely on spicy and salty foods, which can lead to inflammation and digestive issues. For those with a family history of stomach cancer of disease, balancing gut health is crucial.

Here are steps to help improve gut health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases:

• Reduce overly spicy and salty foods: Limiting spicy and salty dishes can help maintain a healthy gut

• Incorporate fresh fruits and vegetables: These provide essential nutrients that support overall health and well-being

• Add alkaline-rich foods: Alkaline foods can help neutralize excess acidity in the body, which contributes to digestive issues and inflammation

alkaline spices for a balanced diet:

• Turmeric

• Cumin

• Coriander

• Cayenne

• Cinnamon

• Fennell

• Ginger

• Miso or fermented soybean

• Mustard

• All herbs

  Incorporating these spices into your diet can help maintain a more balanced pH level, improving digestion and overall health.

Conclusion

Asian Americans face unique challenges when it comes to chronic diseases, with higher risk for conditions like diabetes, stomach cancer and liver cancer. By focusing on gut health, reducing processed foods and incorporating more alkaline-rich spices, you can take proactive steps toward improving your health. Prevention starts with simple lifestyle changes and a balanced approach to nutritioin.

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About the Author: Coach Dee

Deborah Park, known as Coach Dee, is the owner of Drip Training LLC and an ACE Certified Personal Trainer and Health Coach. With a background in architecture and kinesiology from the University of Virginia, she has extensive experience in personal training and athletic coaching in a clinical (physical therapy) setting. Coach Dee combines her scientific knowledge with years of hands-on experience and generational knowledge of food as medicine to create programs that empower clients to regain control over their bodies and minds.

Her journey into personal training was deeply influenced by her personal struggles, including recovering from a life-changing car accident that led to PTSD and pain from scoliosis. This experience gave her a unique understanding of the connection between mental health and physical well-being. Coach Dee is committed to helping clients develop resilience, build strength, and rediscover their confidence—no matter the challenges they face.