Culturally Sensitive Nutrition: How Dietitian Sophie Hung Supports the Chinese Aging Population
When it comes to health and nutrition, a one-size-fits-all approach often falls short—especially for communities with rich culinary traditions and distinct cultural practices. Sophie Hung, a bilingual dietitian with a deep understanding of Chinese culture, is changing the game by tailoring her nutrition counseling to meet the unique needs of the Chinese aging population.
Family Roots: Sophie's Inspiration
Sophie's journey to becoming a dietitian was shaped by her own family's health struggles. Growing up, she witnessed the impact of chronic illnesses within her family, which inspired her to take control of what she could—and to help others do the same.
Her grandmother was bedridden for the last ten years of her life after suffering a stroke, a difficult experience that left a lasting impression on Sophie. On her father's side of the family, diabetes was widespread, affecting nearly everyone, including her father. Sophie recalls a moment when her uncle showed her a box filled with orange pill bottles, explaining how he had to take so many medications each morning that he completely lost his appetite for breakfast. "That broke my heart," Sophie shares.
Other health challenges in her family included high cholesterol, breast cancer, and endometriosis, all of which motivated Sophie to focus on factors she could control—like nutrition, fitness, and stress management. She pursued degrees in microbiology, immunology, molecular genetics, and a master's in nutrition, equipping herself with the knowledge to create meaningful change.
The Cultural Disconnect in Nutrition
For many Chinese families like Sophie's, traditional meals and ingredients like dim sum and white rice are much more than just food—they are expressions of culture, comfort, and connection. Yet, many Chinese clients find themselves frustrated when working with dietitians who don't understand these traditions. Advice like "swap rice for quinoa" or "avoid soy sauce" can feel tone-deaf and impractical, leading to a lack of trust and compliance.
Sophie recognizes these challenges and bridges the gap by focusing on culturally relevant nutrition counseling. "Food and culture are so interconnected," she explains. "I have clients who share with me that they used to work with a Caucasian dietitian, and they didn't understand their food culture."
Food is more than fuel—it's also deeply tied to identity and heritage.
Speaking the Language—Literally and Figuratively
What sets Sophie apart is her ability to communicate with her clients in their native language, both literally and figuratively. Since she is fluent in Cantonese and Mandarin, she can break down complex nutritional concepts to non-English-speaking clients without the added challenge of a language barrier. Beyond language, she also connects on a cultural level, acknowledging traditional beliefs about food and health.
For example, Sophie shares how many of her clients grew up with the belief that eating meat is essential for nutrition, a mindset passed down from their parents. Rather than dismissing these ideas, she gently educates her clients on plant-based diets and how they can complement traditional meals.
Her approach ensures that her clients feel seen, heard, and respected. "I tell them, 'I used to think that way too,'" Sophie shares, demonstrating how she uses her own experiences to relate to her clients and build trust.
Bridging Generations: Working Through Families
Often, Sophie's journey with a client begins with their adult children. These younger family members, who tend to be more tech-savvy, find Sophie online and initiate contact. They are motivated by their own health concerns—such as prediabetes or high cholesterol—and want to bring their parents along on the journey toward better health.
However, convincing older relatives to change lifelong habits can be a sensitive topic. Parents may resist advice from their children, no matter how well-meaning it is. This is where Sophie's expertise shines. By acting as an intermediary, she combines her professional knowledge with her cultural understanding to approach these conversations with care. Her clients often remark that she "already knows their parents" because of her deep familiarity with the common mindsets and habits of the older Chinese generation.
Tailored Programs for the Chinese Aging Population
Sophie's "Healthier You Journey" program is a comprehensive 6–12 month plan that addresses nutrition, fitness, stress management, and more. As she works with clients, she gradually introduces new practices and habits, helping them build small successes into a full healthy lifestyle over time.
One thing that makes her program unique is its cultural sensitivity. She doesn't ask her clients to abandon the foods they love; instead, she works to adapt traditional Chinese dishes into healthier versions.
For instance, she might suggest using low-sodium seasoning alternatives or incorporating more plant-based ingredients into classic recipes. She also educates clients on portion control and balanced meals, all while respecting their cultural preferences. By making these adjustments, Sophie empowers her clients to embrace healthier habits without feeling deprived.
Why Culturally Competent Nutrition Matters
Sophie's work is a powerful example of how culturally competent care can transform lives. For the Chinese aging population, addressing health issues like diabetes, high cholesterol, and heart disease requires more than just nutritional advice—it requires an understanding of their unique cultural context.
By combining her professional expertise with her cultural fluency, Sophie is not only improving her clients' health but also preserving the traditions that matter to them. Her approach underscores the importance of meeting people where they are, rather than expecting them to conform to a generic standard.
Chinese Dietitian Nutritionist Sophie Hung is a Registered Dietitian and Certified Personal Trainer specializing in Asian diet. She offers coaching services virtually anywhere in the USA and in-person in the San Gabriel Valley of Los Angeles County. Sophie speaks English, Chinese (Cantonese and Mandarin), and Spanish.