Why Black People Need a Different Approach to Lowering Cholesterol

Managing cholesterol levels is essential for heart health, particularly within the Black community, which faces a higher prevalence of cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, and stroke. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), Black adults are more likely to have high cholesterol and high blood pressure, increasing the risk of heart disease—the leading cause of death in Black communities.

Traditional mainstream dietary guidelines often fail to address cultural food preferences, socioeconomic realities, and systemic barriers, making it difficult for Black individuals to follow generic “heart-healthy” recommendations. Instead, a tailored approach that modifies traditional soul food recipes, improves food accessibility, and promotes cultural habits that support heart health is necessary for long-term success.

How Soul Food Can Be Modified for Better Heart Health

Soul food is deeply rooted in Black culture and history, offering rich flavors and communal traditions. However, many classic soul food recipes contain high levels of saturated fats, sodium, and refined carbohydrates, all of which contribute to elevated cholesterol levels and heart disease. Fortunately, these dishes can be transformed into heart-healthy meals without sacrificing taste.

Healthier Cooking Methods

Instead of frying in animal fat or butter, opt for methods that retain flavor but reduce unhealthy fats:

Bake, steam, grill, or roast foods instead of frying
Use an air fryer for a crispy texture with minimal oil
Replace butter, lard, or bacon fat with heart-healthy oils like olive oil, avocado oil, or coconut oil

Incorporating More Plant-Based Ingredients

Many traditional soul food dishes already include nutrient-rich vegetables and legumes, which can be emphasized more:

Swap fatty cuts of pork for lean proteins like skinless chicken, turkey, or fish
Use black-eyed peas, lentils, and chickpeas as protein-rich meat alternatives
Cook collard greens, cabbage, and okra with smoked paprika and garlic instead of pork or ham hocks

Reducing Sodium Intake Without Losing Flavor

Many seasoning blends and processed foods are loaded with sodium, contributing to high blood pressure. Try these alternatives:

Use fresh herbs, garlic, onions, and citrus juices for seasoning
Replace high-sodium broths with homemade or low-sodium versions
Use apple cider vinegar and mustard to add depth to dishes without extra salt

Revamping Traditional Dishes

Even beloved dishes like mac and cheese, candied yams, and rice can be modified to be heart-healthy:

Mac and cheese: Use whole wheat pasta and a light cheese sauce made with plant-based milk
Candied yams: Replace butter and sugar with baked sweet potatoes, cinnamon, and a touch of honey
Rice dishes: Use brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice instead of white rice

Why Mainstream Diets Fail Black People

Most mainstream diets, such as keto, paleo, and the Mediterranean diet, fail to consider the unique dietary habits, cultural traditions, and economic barriers that shape Black food choices. These diets often promote foods that are unfamiliar, expensive, or inaccessible to many in Black communities.

Lack of Cultural Relevance

Many mainstream diets eliminate culturally significant foods, making them difficult to follow.
Restricting foods like beans, rice, cornbread, and sweet potatoes makes the diet unsustainable.
Promoting foods like avocado toast, Greek yogurt, and quinoa without culturally relevant alternatives makes healthy eating feel out of reach.

Food Deserts and Accessibility Issues

Many Black communities lack access to fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains due to food deserts.
Instead of grocery stores, fast food restaurants and convenience stores dominate urban Black neighborhoods.
Processed, high-sodium, and high-fat foods are cheaper and more available than fresh, whole foods.

Economic Barriers to Healthy Eating

Organic produce, lean meats, and specialty health foods often cost more than processed alternatives.
Many families must prioritize affordability over nutrition, making traditional “heart-healthy” diets unrealistic.
Time constraints from multiple jobs or caregiving responsibilities make quick and convenient food options more appealing.

Mistrust in Healthcare and Nutrition Guidelines

Due to medical racism and historical mistreatment, some Black individuals are skeptical of mainstream health recommendations.
Doctors may fail to acknowledge cultural food preferences, making it harder for patients to follow advice.
More Black dietitians, doctors, and nutritionists must provide culturally competent guidance.

Cultural Habits That Can Be Tweaked for Better Results

Sustainable changes should align with cultural traditions rather than eliminating them. Small, practical adjustments can support heart health while preserving cultural identity.

Portion Control & Balanced Eating

Enjoy traditional dishes in moderation instead of eliminating them.
Use the plate method: Fill half your plate with vegetables, one-quarter with lean protein, and one-quarter with whole grains.

Smart Cooking Substitutions

Replace white rice with brown rice, quinoa, or barley.
Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt in recipes.
Incorporate plant-based proteins like beans, tofu, or lentils into meals.

Incorporating More Physical Activity

Choose culturally relevant exercises to make fitness enjoyable:

African dance classes (Afrobeats, Zumba, or traditional West African dance)
Double Dutch, stepping, or roller skating
Community walking groups or church-based fitness programs

Mindful Eating Practices

Drink water before meals to prevent overeating.
Eat slowly and pay attention to hunger cues.
Avoid distractions while eating to prevent overconsumption.

Advocating for Better Health Resources

Systemic change is necessary to improve cholesterol management and heart health outcomes in the Black community. Advocacy efforts should focus on:

Increasing access to affordable, fresh produce in predominantly Black neighborhoods.
Supporting Black-owned businesses that sell healthy food options.
Encouraging more Black healthcare professionals to offer culturally competent nutrition advice.
Expanding community-based health programs that focus on heart disease prevention.

Black individuals deserve a culturally sensitive approach to lowering cholesterol—one that acknowledges food traditions, economic realities, and systemic healthcare disparities. Instead of eliminating traditional dishes, a realistic and sustainable approach involves:

Modifying soul food recipes to be heart-healthy
Challenging mainstream diet limitations that ignore cultural norms
Making small, impactful changes to cooking habits and food choices
Advocating for better healthcare resources and food accessibility

Adopting a holistic, inclusive approach can help bridge the health gap and empower Black communities to take control of their well-being without sacrificing cultural identity.

By Dominique Lambright | Published February 27, 2025