Celebrating Mexican Independence Day with Diabetes

Long live Mexico and its culinary art!

Hispanic Heritage Month is from September 15th to October 15th, including the national day of Mexican independence on September 16th. This is a time to get together with our families to celebrate one of the most emblematic traditions and where delicious Mexican dishes with a strong historical representation are enjoyed.

Here is a little about Mexican history and its culinary art!

Mexican History

Mexican dishes have their origins in Mesoamerican times, with a wide variety of dishes that more often than not included corn, chili peppers, beans, pumpkins, avocado and nopal or prickly pear. 

During the colonization, new ingredients such as black pepper, anise and cinnamon were brought to these lands. Meats such as chicken, beef and pork were also added. This is how a blend between Mesoamerican and European cuisines was created, with a great variety of ingredients that provide the huge diversity of Mexican dishes we can continue to enjoy today.

It is with great pride that we celebrate this national month! Mexican flags, balloons, flowers, streamers, typical Mexican costumes and mariachi music are always a must-have. And, above all, the cry of “¡Viva México!” (Long live Mexico!).

Our Food

The blending between Mesoamerican roots and the Spanish culture brought great diversity to Mexican cuisine. As the centuries passed, we came to achieve such an extensive and varied cuisine that today it is considered an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.

As good Mexicans, enjoying traditional dishes such as chiles en nogada, pozole, tostadas, pambazos, etc. is a must. But when you live with diabetes, food can be difficult to navigate and we must plan in advance and pay close attention to the ingredients we will choose. We know this can be quite a headache, but don’t worry because your diabetes is also invited to our Independence Day party. You can and should still enjoy your traditional cultural dishes!

Here are some Mexican dishes to enjoy this Hispanic Heritage Month:

Ropa Vieja

Ropa vieja is a delicious mix of flavors and the best part, you can choose to make a low-carb version. Find out here. MORE

Tacos al pastor

Tacos al pastor are a meal to eat on the go. Find out how to prepare them.MORE

Jell-O With Yogurt and Strawberries

A simple way to prepare a fresh dessert that is rich in protein, collagen and nutrients. Perfect if you live with diabetes! MORE

Chilaquiles with Salsa Verde and Chicken

This green chilaquiles recipe with chicken is packed with flavor using minimal ingredients and is the perfect dish for any meal of the day.MORE

Chiles en nogada

Chiles en nogada are an ideal dish for these national holidays. Here you will learn how to prepare them.MORE

Mojito Reloaded

Ready for a Friday happy hour? This mojito has less than 2 grams of carbs and is delicious with hints of mint and bourbon.MORE

Chicken, Avocado, and Tomato Salad

Consuming enough vegetables throughout the day can be difficult, especially when salads are often the side event at the dinner table. This low-carb salad provides everything needed to serve as a main ...MORE

Mexican Chopped Salad with Jalapeño Lime Dressing

A healthy, filling salad with superfood black beans and a zingy jalapeño lime dressing.MORE

Huevos Rancheros

This was the first time I've ever made Huevos Rancheros, though I must say that I am an expert in eating them. MORE

WRITTEN BY Cinthya Ivonne Oramas López, POSTED 09/14/23, UPDATED 09/14/23

Cinthya Ivonne Oramas López is 22, was born in Mexico City and she has a degree in Nutrition from Universidad Anáhuac México. With a deep call to serve, she likes helping people improve their health and quality of life through good nutrition. Her professional goal is to provide guidance on nutrition and encourage healthy lifestyle habits, as well as promote self-love and self-confidence in her patients. Cinthya enjoys rescuing homeless dogs and cats, traveling with her family and cooking healthy meals.