Preface
African Americans suffer from higher rates of serious diseases
like high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, heart disease and
some types of cancer. African Americans suffer more serious health
problems and die at an earlier age from these diseases. The good news
is that eating a healthy diet and leading an active lifestyle promote
good health and lowers the chances for getting these illnesses.
A healthy diet includes fruits and vegetables, whole grains, fat-free
or low-fat milk products, lean meats, fish, beans, eggs, and nuts. A
healthy diet is also low in saturated fat, trans fat, cholesterol, salt and
added sugars.
Everyone has the power to make choices to improve his/her health.
And eating right doesn't mean giving up our wonderful soul food. In
fact, the basic staples of traditional soul food include lots of healthy
vegetables: dark leafy greens, sweet potatoes, and high-fiber black
eyed peas just to name a few. But they are often cooked with ingredients
that add too much saturated fat, calories and salt to our diet.
By making a few simple changes, you and your loved ones can enjoy
the flavors of healthy down home cooking. The recipes and hints in
this cookbook will help you get started.
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