This episode is all about food. Soul Food to be exact. Soul food started in the American South during slavery. Slaves were given the leftover parts of the animals that their masters didn’t want. From pig intestines to butts of oxen, Black people took that and made chitterlings and oxtails. Soul Food was born from the spirit that Black people carry of taking what they have and turning it into something incredible. The food that was created during slavery is still enjoyed today but Black and non-Blacks alike.
Soul Food is a testament to our ability to overcome and strive, but it hasn’t been without its drawbacks. Many African Americans today are predisposed to diseases like Diabetes, High Blood Pressure, Heart Disease, and Strokes. At least a portion of that can be related back to our diets. Unfortunately, a lot of the foods we enjoy are high in sodium and sugar which in moderation is fine, but in excess can lead to health problems. I’m no doctor, but as I have gotten older I have seen the effects first hand. My wake-up call was going to the doctor and them telling me that if I don’t change my diet I would risk hypertension and diabetes.
Today I will be talking with my guest about a different kind of soul food. Later I will be joined by co-owner and co-found Detroit Vegan Soul. A soul food cafe that is 100% vegan, but still manages to taste like a meal made with meat and dairy. Some of you mage be wondering what a vegan is. A vegan is someone who does not consume any animal products including meat, eggs, honey, and dairy. Some people choose to be vegan for health reasons while others do it for ethical reasons. Veganism is becoming more popular each year and there are now many vegan-friendly options available today. I have managed to go completely vegetarian, but I think I love my mac and cheese too much to ever go completely vegan. I am thinking about working a couple of vegan days into my diet, that and exercise to make sure my health is something I prayerfully don’t have to worry about.