Comparative Analysis of the Mexican vs Mexican-American Diet and Rates of Obesity through Two Case Studies, A

In this research paper I analyze and compare the diet of the inhabitants of a rural village in Yucatan, Mexico with the diet of Mexican-Americans living in Laramie, WY in order to discern the reasons behind the increasing trends in obesity among these particular populations. This project is based on data collected through interviews with volunteer participants from among the target audiences in both locations. Data on nutrition and obesity among Yucatecan populations was previously collected during the summer study abroad course, "Maya Art & Culture", taught by Dr. Mary Katherine Scott (2014). This data is compared with new data collected in Laramie, WY in the spring of 2016. In both cases, IRB approval was given. I compared these two populations because both populations are rural communities. Santa Elena, Yucatan is a rural village that is approximately 20-30 minutes from the nearest city, Ticul, Yucatan. Likewise, Laramie, WY is a rural community situated approximately 45 minutes from the larger city of Cheyenne, WY.