The journey to health doesn't mean abandoning our cultural heritage. As someone who grew up with Sunday dinners featuring mac and cheese, collard greens, and sweet potato pie, I understand the emotional connection to our traditional foods.
Here's how I help my patients maintain their cultural connection while optimizing their health on GLP-1 medications:
Traditional dishes can be modified while preserving their essence. Consider:
- Using smoked turkey instead of ham hocks in greens
- Incorporating more beans and lean proteins
- Experimenting with baked versions of traditionally fried foods
- Reducing sugar while maintaining spices and seasonings
Family gatherings often center around food, and changing eating habits can create tension. I advise my patients to:
- Communicate health goals clearly with family
- Bring modified dishes to share
- Focus on portion control rather than complete elimination
- Share the health benefits they're experiencing
