The most prominent Human Ecology among the Mayas in Yucatan, México (III)

The most prominent Human Ecology among the Mayas in Yucatan, México (III)
Coca-cola colonising Yucatan, Celestum, Yucatán (Mexico). Ines Varela-Silva © Proyecto Maya e Ines Varela-Silva

The most prominent Human Ecology among the Mayas in Yucatan, México (III)

Carbonated drinks are a worry and several researchers have suggested that parts of Mexico are being “colonised by Coca-Cola“. This nutritional transition is linked to deficient growth and the consequences for people who are also overweight. The biological result is that the Mayas are in the fast lane for many non-transmittable diseases like diabetes, high blood pressure and cardiovascular diseases. Over the past 20 years, migration to the USA has become more common and there are now tens of thousands of Mayas living in Los Angeles, Houston, parts of Florida and other cities. These international migrants often form cultural associations and carry on with religious festivals like those typical of Maya cities in their country of origin.

Poor nutritional drinks are taking the place of traditional ones. Even in the most rural areas of the peninsula, billboards invite people to try drinks with a high sugar and calorie content. These drinks are cheaper than a bottle of water.

 

Inés Varela-Silva, professor and researcher at Loughborough University (United Kingdom)