A 45-year-old Catholic Hispanic-American patient has been admitted to the hospital with pneumonia.On admission,the patient did not identify any food preferences or food allergies.The nurse notes that the patient has requested that the family provide all meals during the hospital stay.This is most likely related to which of the following?

A) Food preferences
B) Hispanic cultural traditions
C) Religious preferences
D) Food sensitivities

The intake of certain foods also reflects the patient's culture or beliefs.Foods in various cultures have different status relating to religion,availability,cost,and tradition.For example,some Hispanic-Americans use certain hot foods (e.g.,chocolate,cheese,eggs)for conditions producing fever,and cold foods (e.g.,fresh vegetables,dairy foods,honey)for disorders such as cancer or headaches.Understand the patient's cultural heritage and the role diet plays in health promotion and maintenance.