From tradition to transition: a narrative review on the role of heritage diets in mitigating nutrition-related non-communicable diseases in Tanzania

Abstract

Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) is currently undergoing rapid urbanisation, a transition that is closely linked to the adoption of sedentary lifestyles and Westernised dietary habits. This shift has contributed to a substantial rise in obesity and diet-related non-communicable diseases (DR-NCDs), placing a significant strain on already burdened healthcare systems. Among the key modifiable risk factors driving this epidemiological transition are changes in dietary patterns. Western-style diets have been shown to promote inflammation and trigger metabolic and immune dysregulation, factors that underlie the development of DR-NCDs. Conversely, many Tanzanian heritage diets incorporate a diverse array of nutrient-rich foods prepared using techniques that minimise the use of oils, sweeteners and preservatives. These diets predominantly use whole grains, legumes and fruits, foods high in dietary fibre and nutraceuticals. Nutraceuticals are known to have both immunomodulatory and metabolic benefits and could potentially counteract the negative effects associated with Western-style diets. However, the limited scientific documentation of these heritage diets endangers future research into their potential health benefits. This underscores the need for targeted efforts to preserve and promote traditional dietary practices. In this review, we summarise the diversity of heritage diets from four distinct tribes in Northern Tanzania – the Maasai, Chagga, Pare and Hadzabe – who have historically exhibited low rates of DR-NCDs but are now experiencing rapid urbanisation and lifestyle changes. We briefly describe the dietary patterns of these tribes and examine the potential links between the declining usage of traditional dietary practices and the rising prevalence of DR-NCDs in Tanzania.