Self-care and wellness are the buzzwords of the moment, but it isn’t easy to know where to begin the journey of optimal health. However, we know nutrition is a crucial factor. We spoke with Johane Filemon, a Registered Dietician Nutritionist who runs a company called Wonderfully Nutritious, about the role supplements play in a balanced diet.
BHM: How does access to nutritious food directly correlate to our health conditions?
Johane Filemon: Our community has experienced health disparities since the genesis of this country. Today, access to basic medical needs and a qualified and licensed nutritionist is hard for many in our community, primarily due to their financial capabilities and access to health insurance. Others have poor access to nutrient-dense foods due to the food deserts surrounding them. Because of this, you will find that many are experiencing more health conditions linked to the foods they eat and the lack of nutrients they provide. They lack knowledge of nutrition and have to eat what they have access to.
BHM: Are there any specific vitamin or mineral deficiencies that impact us as a collective?
JF: Vitamin D deficiency is often prevalent in our community. The pigmentation or melanin in our skin reduces Vitamin D production. The fact that most of us are indoors most of the time does not help. Low Vitamin D levels have been associated with decreased immune system function. It is essential to consume foods high in Vitamin D and take daily Vitamin D supplementation to maintain adequate Vitamin D levels.
BHM: Which vitamins and supplements are essential for our overall health, and what are the best ways to ensure their safe and effective use?
JF: There are 13 essential vitamins that our bodies require to function daily. Food is the first place we should aim to get them. Vitamins A, B, C, E, and K come from various foods. This is why consuming a diet of colorful plant-based foods is important, so we often consume these various nutrients. Supplements should come in second to support what we cannot get from the foods we eat, which can be due to various reasons.
BHM: What are your top tips regarding prioritizing our health and wellness while limiting the risk of getting overwhelmed?
J F: Making changes that benefit our health and wellness doesn’t happen overnight and can take baby steps. Stressing over these changes can be counterproductive for our overall health. This is why we need to give ourselves a lot of grace as we make these changes. This does not mean we should not be proactive; it is okay to make one change at a time. Start with consuming more colorful plant-based foods. A diet that consists predominantly of various plant-based foods allows for more consumption of different vitamins and minerals, promoting good gut health by feeding the good bacteria in our gut and our overall body.
Additional Information
For more information regarding which specific supplements to add to your diet, visit this Black Health Matters article. Additionally, be sure to explore more of Johane Filemon’s work in the dietitian nutritionist field. As we navigate the complex world of health, having the right access and knowledge is more important than ever. This ensures that we can make informed nutritional choices. This is where the Difference App comes in. Our page includes many similar articles that help in weight management and making informed decisions in terms of diet. This includes areas such as sleep, fasting, and restaurant menu analyses. By connecting with qualified nutritionists like Johane Filemon and accessing valuable information on nutrition, we can all work towards a healthier future—one informed choice at a time.