Good food is one of the great pleasures of life and is often at the center of family traditions and gatherings. This is true for most cultures, including African Americans. Unfortunately, the foods that are often found to be the most “comforting” and which are often present at social gatherings can also be high in fat, calories, and salt. Great food that is comforting and enjoyable does not have to be unhealthy. This is an important fact since 4 out of the 5 leading causes of death among African Americans: heart disease, cancer, diabetes and stroke, can be prevented or managed with some simple lifestyle changes, including choosing healthier foods and making a point to be more active.
