Understanding the Harmful Habits of Panamanian Living

Exploring the unique cultural and health habits of Panama can offer both fascinating insights and practical guidance. This article highlights several habits that, while ingrained in daily routines, may have detrimental effects on the health and culture of the Panamanian people.

Health-Related Harmful Habits

Overconsumption of Processed and Fatty Foods

One of the most notable health habits among Panamanians is the overconsumption of fatty, greasy foods, often high in sodium. The tendency to eat at fast-food restaurants like McDonald's, even in their own homes, is especially prevalent in lower-income areas. This results in a high prevalence of lifestyle-related health issues such as:

High blood pressure Coronary heart disease Strokes Greasy liver

Excessive Sugar Intake

Another harmful habit is the heavy consumption of sugary drinks, which translates to high rates of diabetes. Soda and other sweetened beverages are favored over water, contributing to a widespread health problem in the country.

Hazardous Alcohol Consumption

Latin America is known for high alcohol consumption, and Panama is no exception. Excessive alcohol intake leads to a range of issues, including:

Diabetes Cirrhosis Mental impairment Severe traffic accidents Drink-driving offenses

These habits, deeply rooted in both cultural and social practices, highlight the need for lifestyle changes to promote healthier living and reduce the incidence of preventable health issues.

Cultural Harmful Habits

Conformity and Lack of Cultural Expansion

Cultural norms in Panama often promote conformity, with a focus on achieving basic stability (a job, a house, a car) rather than expanding one's horizons. This leads to a lack of interest in exploring literature, culture, and personal heritage.

Lack of Forward Thinking

Panamanians have a habit of prioritizing money and practical gain over cultural development. This is exemplified by the phrase 'jugar vivo' (to play smart), which means engaging in dishonest actions to achieve financial goals. This mindset, while widespread, can contribute to unethical behavior and a general lack of long-term thinking.

Irresponsibility and Punctuality

Irresponsibility and tardiness are common traits, impacting personal and professional relationships. This unreliability can lead to missed opportunities and a reputation for not following through with commitments.

Overreliance on Politicians for Solutions

Another significant cultural habit is the belief that political figures will solve all problems. This overdependence on politicians can lead to a lack of personal and community involvement in addressing issues.

Living Beyond Means

Many Panamanians see politicians as the solution to all their problems, often living heavily in debt to purchase luxury items like over-sized TVs, expensive cell phones, and other unnecessary expenses. This 'living off of our means' mentality can be detrimental to personal financial health and stability.

Impact of Third World Mentality

The article concludes with a reflection on the broader societal impact of these habits. Despite the country's economic and financial progress, a 'third world mentality' persists, hindering progress and perpetuating a cycle of poverty and poor quality of life.

To summarize, Panama's unique cultural and health habits, while deeply ingrained, come with significant health and social costs. Addressing these habits requires a combination of cultural shifts, improved health education, and personal responsibility to promote a healthier and more prosperous society.