Black Vegan Cooks Advocating for Better Nutrition

Access to good nutritious food in our communities is shrinking due to rising costs and lack of time to prepare traditional foods. As a result, many families are increasingly relying on fast food, which is contributing to a rise in diet-related illnesses like obesity and type 2 diabetes.

Interestingly, studies have shown that Black adults are twice as likely to be diagnosed with diabetes and are at a higher risk of experiencing complications due to type 2 diabetes. The risk is further exacerbated by poor nutrition and lower physical activity levels, particularly among in Black adolescent girls and women.

One major factor contributing to this issue is systemic racism, which often leads to the redlining of Black-majority neighborhoods, restricting access to resources. This results in limited access to full-service grocery stores, making it harder for communities to access fresh, healthy food.

In recognition of National Nutrition Month this March, the theme from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics is “Food Connects Us.” In alignment with this theme, Elevate Black Health aims to connect our community with influential Black YouTubers who are excelling in promoting healthy vegan diets.

5 benefits of vegan diet

Why did we choose vegan diet this year, you may ask. Because the fast food our people are stuffing their bellies with are mostly fat and calorie-filled and vegan foods will help provide the balance they need for healthier bodies.

Vegan diets are plant-based containing grains, vegetables, nuts, fruits, and seeds. Vegetables particularly contain phytochemicals and antioxidants which is known to fight diseases, including free radicals in the body that has been implicated with cancer. Here are some benefits of vegan diets that are priceless to our community.

Help in maintaining a healthy weight: vegan diets are usually high in fiber which fills the stomach and can aid those struggling with weight loss to snack less. This can help you prevent obesity which is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes.
May assist with lower blood pressure: high blood pressure is one of the illnesses that disproportionately affect Black adults. Vegan foods can be the key to better cholesterol management and lower blood pressure.
Promote healthier gut microbiome: the beneficial microorganisms living in the digestive tract help with digestion and keeping harmful organisms away. Plant-based diet provides fiber which the good organisms feed on to thrive and outcompete the bad organisms.
High nutrient value: vegan diets have been shown to have a high nutrient value. They are usually rich in vitamin C, vitamin E, folate, magnesium, and potassium which are all beneficial to good health.
Lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases: studies have shown that cardiovascular diseases are more common in our communities with Black men having up to 70% higher risk of heart failure compared to white men. The combination of low sodium and saturated fats levels and zero dietary cholesterol means vegan foods can fight cardiovascular diseases.

Top 5 Black YouTube vegan channels you should follow

We know some of the people in our communities may truly desire to incorporate healthier vegan diets into their routine but unsure of how to do so. We found Black YouTubers who have embraced the vegan lifestyle and sharing their experiences and culinary skills with the world. To view each of their video series, click on their names or images.

1. Turnip Todd (Good Food & Growing Mushrooms)

Todd who is a content creator and videographer is on a personal mission to help people lead healthier lives. He often creates new recipes from scratch using mushrooms, walnuts, jackfruit, and other plant-based items as the main ingredient. We liked how his videos can encourage families to start a backyard garden.

2. PlantbasedBrandon

This channel will serve as inspiration to those who find it difficult cooking their own food at home. This push is what we loved about his channel. Every episode of Brandon’s videos walks his audience through an interesting vegan recipe that he whips up in his kitchen.

3. Vegan Hippie Sol

This channel was created by accomplished chef, Dominique Williamson. Her goal is to eliminate the negative stereotypes associated with veganism and make plant-based foods more accessible to everyone. The channel has curated selections with step-by-step guide that is just great for beginners. Bursting myths is what we do best at Elevate Black Health and the reason we like her channel.

4. By Nature Food

Birthed by the creative minds of two school friends Michael and Andre who started selling vegan Jamaican patties but was forced to transition online after the COVID pandemic. They are particularly known for playing around with natural flavors and unique bold seasoning blends. Blacks and spices are inseparable, and we love that this channel is presenting us with healthy alternatives.

5. Shakayla Felice

While it often feels like there is a wall separating vegans and nonvegans, Shakayla Felice is focused on telling the world that the divide is not necessary. Her channel is focused on making meatless Mondays more fun. We love her effort in trying to break the boundaries between the two worlds.

Breaking from a habit—especially unhealthy ones—is not usually as easy as flipping a switch. However, seeing others accomplish the same feat may provide us with the motivation and strength to see through our transformation. EBH advises our readers to always consult with a nutritionist before making drastic nutritional changes. This is particularly important for those with underlying health conditions.

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