4 Nutritional Challenges Faced by the LGBTQIA+ Community in Puerto Rico
Written by: Keniel Vega, Rocío Rivera-Ortega, MS, RD, LND & Tatiana Velez, MS, RD, LND, CPT
A large portion of the LGBTQIA+ community, for different reasons, is not open or expressive with their colleagues, coaches, or healthcare professionals. This may be due to the various challenges they face.
It is important to consider the following four barriers that can influence proper medical, nutritional, and/or sports care within this community.
1. Higher risk of disordered eating and eating disorders
According to scientific literature and studies, the LGBTQIA+ community is at higher risk of developing disordered eating patterns and eating disorders compared to individuals who do not identify as part of this population.
Factors such as hiding one’s identity and body dysmorphia may increase the risk of disordered eating.
2. Food restriction and training limitations
Individuals may be exposed to food restrictions and/or overtraining, resulting in energy imbalances driven by expectations of achieving certain body types or physical appearance.
It is important to explore their goals and reasons for making dietary changes in order to guide them through a healthier process and reduce the risk of these behaviors.
3. Mental and emotional health conditions
This population is more prone to mental and emotional health conditions. These include risk behaviors such as low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and excessive stress related to discrimination, bullying, and social pressure.
Addressing these challenges with a mental health professional team is essential to improve the mental and physical well-being of the community.
4. Limited access to healthcare
Individuals may face difficulties accessing healthcare due to experiences of rejection and bias. This can result in the community not receiving appropriate medical care to address their health concerns.
There are ongoing challenges and barriers within the healthcare system that are still being addressed to expand inclusive services.
Continuous education on these topics is needed, along with increased efforts so healthcare providers, including nutrition professionals, can meet diverse needs and ensure this population has access to care without limitations.
Recommendations for healthcare and sports professionals for better care of the LGBTQIA+ community
You do not have to be part of the community to provide inclusive services. You can be empathetic and actively listen to lived experiences, challenges, and barriers faced by this community. You can also support inclusive care.
Ask about pronouns and complete ongoing education in this field to improve cultural sensitivity skills.
Support equal rights in all settings.
Promote support groups and safe spaces.
Maintain professional ethics and self-assess personal biases.
Report any incidents of homophobia, transphobia, sexism, or any other disrespectful behavior.
Fuel Labs supports inclusive services and values diversity in all individuals.
We promote a safe space, and when necessary, we collaborate with medical and mental health teams to ensure comprehensive nutritional support.
For more resources about the LGBTQIA+ community in Puerto Rico, you can access the following links:
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