Acculturation Hispanic paradox

the extent of hispanic american’s acculturation in united states, or assimilation mainstream american culture, relative or health. 1 of main negative effects of acculturation on health has been on substance abuse. more assimilated latinos have higher rates of illicit drug use, alcohol consumption, , smoking, among women. negative effect of acculturation changes in diet , nutrition. more acculturated latinos eat less fruits, vegetables, vitamins, fiber , protein , consume more fat less acculturated counterparts. 1 of significant impacts of acculturation on latino health birth outcomes. studies have found more acculturated latinas have higher rates of low birthweight, premature births, teenage pregnancy , undesirable prenatal , postnatal behaviors such smoking or drinking during pregnancy, , lower rates of breastfeeding. acculturation , greater time in united states has been associated negative mental health impacts. us-born latinos or long term residents of united states had higher rates of mental illness recent latino immigrants. in addition, foreign-born mexican americans @ lower risk of suicide , depression born in united states. increased rates of mental illness thought due increased distress associated alienation, discrimination , mexican americans attempting advance economically , socially stripping of traditional resources , ethnically-based social support.