March 2024 Health, Wellness and Nutrition Supplemen

Women’s Wellness: The Importance of Nutrition, Prioritizing Healthy Eating Habits

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By Micha Green WI Managing Editor

Happy Women’s History and Happy National Nutrition Month!

As March marks a time to reflect on the major contributions women have made to the world, the month is also a perfect time to work to address the challenges women still face.

From conversations surrounding reproductive rights, to maternal health challenges, and various diseases, women face major health challenges, many of which are discussed on national and global scales. For African American women, who are more likely to die due to cardiovascular disease, hypertension and certain cancers, it’s particularly important-- this month and beyond-- to discuss tools to combat health disparities and work to improve overall wellness outcomes.

With it also being National Nutrition Month, it seemed like a perfect opportunity to evaluate the correlation between Black women’s health and the foods consumed.

Merriam Webster defines nutrition as, “the sum of the processes by which an animal or plant takes in and utilizes food substances.” Thus, when examining nutrition, particularly as it relates to a certain group, it’s important to acknowledge that group’s relationship with food, how substances for nourishment are accessed and utilized.

Black Americans’ relationship with food roots back to Africa and is mixed with its own traditions from slavery, to a means of liberation, joy and expressing culture. From enslaved times, when scraps were served as meals and access to food was limited, to the birth of soul food and the traditions of Sunday dinners, Black food is critical to African American life and culture.

From visionary chef and cookbook author Edna Lewis, who redefined Southern American cooking, to singer Pattie Labelle’s celebrated sweet potato pie, Black women have been critical to sharing Black food and culture with the

nation and world. As such, the soul food they prepare and share should not be criminalized, but celebrated, and appreciated in moderation-- like anything else, for that matter.

First of all, there’s nothing inherently wrong with traditional soul food meals if prepared with keeping health in mind. In fact, soul food can be rather balanced, with many meals including a high fiber vegetable such as collard greens, a lean protein such as chicken or fish, and one starch such as macaroni and cheese or potatoes.

Greens (collard, kale, or mixed)--- sans pork or additional sugar and sodium--- can be a great way to keep a soul food staple high on your diet. Macaroni and cheese lovers might opt for plant-based or whole-wheat noodles to cut the carbohydrates, or opt for baked sweet potatoes as opposed to candied yams. If incorporating meat, perhaps trying baking or grilling a fish or chicken as opposed to frying it.

Further, for those craving that old fashioned fare, doing so in moderation, such as for holidays, is not the worst thing in the world as long as consuming those foods don’t go against pre-existing health challenges or other beliefs and practices.

Here’s the thing, we’re not trying to take away the joy from eating. We’re trying to emphasize the importance of Black women’s overall wellness.

Nutrition is key in prioritizing health. With diseases facing African women at disproportionate rates, examining Black women’s relationship with food is important in the overall battle for health equity.

5 WI Managing Editor Micha Green considers the importance of Black women’s health. (Courtesy Photo)

5 Examining nutrition is important when working to prioritize health, particularly, Black women, who are affected by various diseases at disproportionate rates. (Courtesy Photo)

Combating Black Women’s Health

Disparities, Importance of Diet and Nutrition

By Micha Green and Lindiwe Vilakazi WI Managing Editor and WI Health Reporter

Prioritizing health for Black women is critical.

According to the Black Women’s Health Study (BWHS) at Boston University’s Slone Epidemiology Center, African American women are more likely than any other racial and ethnic group to die from cardiovascular disease, hypertension, stroke, lupus and several cancers.

Further, according to a recent report from the Office of Minority Health, roughly four out of five African American women are overweight or obese.

“Being mindful of what we eat can save our lives,” said Kailasa Aqeel, communications and events manager at Common Good City Farm in Northwest, D.C.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, those with healthy eating habits tend to live

longer and are at lower risk for serious health problems, including heart disease, obesity, and type 2 diabetes. Moreover, the CDC reports a balanced diet can help manage chronic diseases and prevent further complications.

While access to healthy foods remains a challenge many Black Americans face (Feeding America reported that nearly 22% of African Americans were food insecure in 2022), making conscious nutritional choices can contribute to Black women’s wellness overall.

“Now that I work at a farm I’m even more mindful of the practices that go into food production,” said Aqeel, a mother and member of the band Black Folks Don’t Swim. “I try to eat whole foods. Anything that is processed is going to diminish the nutritional value. Like instead of sweet potato chips or sweet potato fries, try actually eating a whole sweet potato. Just something like that can make a difference in your overall health and wellness.” n

5 D.C. native, multi-hyphenated artist and mother Kailasa Aqeel, who serves as communications and events manager at Common Good City Farm, shared the importance of Black women prioritizing nutrition for overall wellness. (Courtesy Photo)

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Chef Huda Shares Healthy Jambalaya Inspired

Penne Pasta

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Start with the pasta, cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Set aside a 1/4 cup of pasta water.

5 Listing fresh, easy-to-purchase ingredients, her own Just Savor Cajun Kick Seasoning, and offering a step-by-step tutorial, Chef Huda shared her Jambalaya Inspired Penne Pasta. (Courtesy Photo/Jackie Hicks)

By Chef Huda Mumin

Jambalaya Inspired Penne Pasta Servings: 4-6

INGREDIENTS

• 1 box of penne pasta

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts | cut into bite-sized pieces

• 12 oz smoked turkey sausage | slice on bias

• 1 medium onion |chopped

• 1 green bell pepper | small dice

• 1 red bell pepper | small dice

• 2 cloves garlic | minced

• 1 can roasted tomatoes

| (14.5 oz)

• 1 cup chicken broth | (240ml)

• 1 tablespoon Just Savor

Cajun Kick Seasoning

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Kosher Salt to taste

• Black pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley for garnish | optional

2. Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat add in 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add in chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes or until done. Once cooked remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the smoked turkey sausage and cook until lightly browned, about 4-5 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.

4. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper. Sauté until they begin to soften, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.

5. Stir in the tomatoes, chicken broth, Cajun Kick seasoning, dried thyme, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

6. Add the cooked chicken and smoked turkey sausage to the skillet and stir. Let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes or until reduces and thickens as desired.

7. Add in cooked penne pasta to the skillet. Stir until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

8. To serve garnish with chopped fresh parsley and Enjoy!

3 LChef Huda’s Jambalaya Inspired Penne Pasta includes flavorful ingredients such as green and red bell peppers, garlic, minced onion, roasted tomatoes, smoked turkey sausage and skinless chicken breasts.

(Courtesy Photo)

Taking Control of Your Health Through Diet and Nutrition

your diet, which typically show through a rise in blood pressure, swollen feet or hands, and increased thirst.

Did You Know?

By Lindiwe Vilakazi WI Health Reporter

Over the course of a lifetime, our bodies track our dietary patterns, physical activity, seasons of happiness, grief, and everything in between.

Did you know assessing the foods you are consuming is important to your overall health and wellness?

DID YOU KNOW: EDUCATION IS KEY?

Many Americans do not have a full understanding of what they’re eating and how certain foods affect overall health.

A recent GreenChef survey, found 54% of Americans don’t understand more than half of a nutrition label. Further, participants in the survey associated phrases such as “low-fat” (49%), “low calories” (47%) and“veggie-forward” (36%) as being healthy, SWNS Digital reported.

Further, the National Association of Community Health Centers’ report “Closing the Primary Care Gap,” showed more than 100 million Americans don’t have a primary care provider.

The lack of nutritional and dietary education coupled with the issue of people neglecting regular visits to the doctor can ultimately create a recipe for serious health implications.

While understanding how to manage a proper diet presents its challenges, there are quick hacks to learning how to gauge the nutritional value of the foods we consume for a more balanced health and lifestyle.

Avoid high levels of sodium in

Assess the ratio of the food groups on your plate. Dieticians recommend filling half of a dinner plate with non-starchy vegetables, a quarter filled with carbohydrates such as starchy vegetables or brown rice, and the last quarter composed of lean protein.

The Centers for Disease Control recommends a diet with low added sugar, high fiber, and low refined carbohydrate intake. Large amounts of added sugar provide no nutritional benefits.

DID YOU KNOW: ENVIRONMENT IMPACTS DIET AND NUTRITION CHOICES?

In 2023, the Capital Area Food Bank’s Hunger Report cited that 32% of the District’s population experienced food insecurity at some point between May 2022 and April 2023, compared with 33% the year prior?

While District residents experience food insecurity within every quadrant across the city, a large number of African American families residing East of the River are particularly living in a food desert.

“They don’t give the people in Southeast good, quality foods. Simple as that,” Jay Clark told The Informer in September 2023.

Without a lack of full service grocery stores, corner markets filled with highly processed foods in conjunction with socioeconomic and transportation barriers encourage negative health outcomes.

DID YOU KNOW: WHAT WE EAT AFFECTS OUR MOODS?

There’s a relationship to what we eat and how we feel- both physically and mentally.

The National Library of Medicine reports poor nutrition may be a significant factor in the experience of experiencing sad or bad moods. However, improving diet can help to protect the state of one’s physical and mental health.

According to Harvard Health, 95% of the body’s “serotonin,” a neurotransmitter that helps regulate sleep and appetite, inhibits pain and mediate moods, is produced in the gastrointestinal tract, showing the correlation of what we eat and how we feel. For this reason, eating healthy foods can influence mental health and overall wellness.

“Epidemiological research has observed that…high consumption of fruits, vegetables, nuts, and legumes; moderate consumption of poultry, eggs, and dairy products; and only occasional consumption

of red meat - is associated with a reduced risk of depression,” according to NIH.

Studies show that high consumption of processed carbohydrates not only increase the risk of diabetes and obesity, but they could increase the risk of anxiety and depression, particularly through rapid and repeated increases and decreases in blood glucose.

DID YOU KNOW: TRANS FATS ARE A KILLER?

Beware of trans fats.

“Trans fat intake is responsible for up to 500,000 premature deaths from coronary heart disease

each year around the world,” according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

Trans fats significantly increase the risk for stroke, cancer, insulin resistance, Type 2 diabetes, heart attack, inflammation, infertility, and even tendon and bone degeneration.

Hydrogenated oils, used to enhance flavor and increase shelf life of products, often contain a lot of trans fats, such as: butter, sticks of margarine, microwave popcorn, fried foods, shortening, non dairy coffee creamer, crisco oil, and commercial baked goods.

The most pressing danger of trans fats are their ability to clog the arteries, greatly increasing the risk of heart attacks and death. Most heart problems stem from inflammation inside of the arteries. n

WOMEN’S WELLNESS:

Heart Health: Knowing Your Risks and Advocating for Yourself

Submitted by Howard University Faculty Practice Plan

Heart health is a concern that affects us all, regardless of age, gender or background. In the United States, heart disease remains the leading cause of death for both men and women. For Black Americans, the prevalence and risk are even higher. Despite medical advancements, the prevalence of heart-related conditions emphasizes the importance of proactive measures to protect our cardiovascular well-being.

“Despite the global burden, disparities remain, Black Americans in the United States have the highest incidence of death from heart disease. It is extremely important to understand your individual risk because an overwhelming 70% of the causes that lead to heart disease are treatable and preventable conditions,” says Dr. Raymond Young, the medical director for cardiac services and the cardiovascular intensive care

Americans persist as a significant issue in the United States healthcare system. Structural inequities, including socioeconomic factors and systemic racism, contribute to disparities in access to healthcare, quality of care and health outcomes. However, receiving culturally appropriate care from a trusted physician can reduce some of these disparities. Culturally competent care acknowledges and respects the unique cultural backgrounds, beliefs, and values of patients, creating trust and improving communication between patients and healthcare providers. This encourages a more supportive and understanding healthcare environment, leading to better health outcomes and patient satisfaction among Black Americans. By addressing cultural barriers and tailoring care to individual needs, culturally competent physicians play a crucial role in reducing health disparities and promoting health equity in marginalized communities.

heart health numbers. This includes your:

• Blood pressure.

• Cholesterol levels.

• Blood sugar levels.

• Body mass index (BMI).

Regular screenings and check-ups with your healthcare provider can provide valuable insights into your heart health status and help identify any potential red flags early on.

Equally important is recognizing the impact of lifestyle factors on heart health. For example,

• Poor dietary choices.

• Lack of exercise.

• Smoking.

• Excessive alcohol consumption.

• Chronic stress.

These can all contribute to an increased risk of heart disease. By adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet, regular physical activity, stress man-

ing heart-related conditions.

In addition to taking proactive steps to protect your heart health, it’s crucial to be an advocate for yourself within the healthcare system. This means actively participating in discussions about your health, asking questions and seeking clarification when needed. Don’t hesitate to voice your concerns or preferences regarding treatment options, and if something doesn’t feel right, don’t be afraid to seek a second opinion.

Also, advocating for yourself includes being proactive about seeking medical attention when necessary. Many heart-related conditions, such as heart attacks and strokes, require immediate intervention for the best possible outcomes. Recogniz-

ing the warning signs and seeking prompt medical attention can make a life-saving difference.

Heart health is a journey that requires proactive engagement, informed decision-making and self-advocacy. By knowing your risk factors, adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle and being an active participant in your healthcare journey, you can take control of your heart health and reduce your risk of heart disease. Remember, your heart is in your hands, so take care of it with diligence and determination.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Young at the Howard University Faculty Practice Plan, call 202-8651967. n

Understanding the Basics of Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes

Written by Catherine Poslusny, Safeway Medically reviewed by Liz Oler, PharmD

Diabetes is a chronic (long-term) condition that impacts how your body gets energy from the foods you eat, according to the CDC. Knowing the difference between type 1 and type 2 diabetes is important because each type has unique causes, risk factors, treatment options, and management techniques.

WHAT IS DIABETES?

Your body needs energy to work and stay healthy, and it gets most of that energy from breaking down food into glucose (sugar).

When glucose enters your bloodstream, it raises your blood sugar. This tells your pancreas that it’s time to release some insulin. As the insulin travels through your body, it acts like a key, letting the glucose into your cells, where it’s converted into energy.

In people with diabetes, there’s a gap between how much insulin you need and how much your body can make, leading to high blood sugar. In type 1 diabetes, the pancreas doesn’t

make insulin at all. In type 2 diabetes and gestational diabetes, the body still makes insulin, but it either doesn’t make enough or doesn’t use it very well.

TYPE 1 DIABETES

About 5 to 10% of people with diabetes have Type 1 diabetes.

In type 1 diabetes, an autoimmune reaction causes the body’s immune system to attack healthy insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Over time, this destroys the body’s ability to make insulin.

Type 1 diabetes can develop at any age, but it most commonly occurs in children, teens, and young adults. You may be more likely to develop type 1 diabetes if you have a parent or sibling with the condition. At this time, there’s no known way to prevent type 1 diabetes.

Symptoms of type 1 diabetes can appear suddenly over several days or weeks and may include being more hungry or thirsty than usual, frequent urination, blurry vision, fatigue, and weight loss.

Type 1 diabetes is diagnosed with

blood tests to measure blood glucose. Treatment usually involves multiple daily insulin injections and self-monitoring blood sugar.

TYPE 2 DIABETES

About 90-95% of people with diabetes have Type 2 diabetes.

It happens when your body doesn’t make enough insulin (insulin deficiency) or your cells don’t react to it very well (insulin resistance), leading to high blood sugar.

Type 2 diabetes can develop at any age, but it’s usually diagnosed in adults who are middle-aged or older. Risk factors include:

• Family history of diabetes

• Lifestyle factors (age, weight, diet, physical activity level)

You may help prevent type 2 diabetes by eating nutrient-rich foods, reaching and maintaining a healthy weight, and exercising regularly.

Symptoms of type 2 diabetes can develop slowly over several years and include being more hungry or thirsty than usual, frequent urination, blurry vision, fatigue, and weight loss.

Type 2 diabetes is diagnosed with

blood tests to measure blood glucose. Treatment usually involves healthy lifestyle changes, sometimes accompanied by medication and insulin.

MANAGING TYPE 1 AND TYPE 2 DIABETES INVOLVES:

• Self-monitoring blood sugar levels: Don’t forget to record your measurements! They’re a great tool for making informed decisions about your diet, physical activity, and treatment.

• Regular checkups: Here, you’ll set goals to help manage your condition, often by measuring 3 key things— A1C (your average blood sugar over the last 3 months), blood pressure, and cholesterol. Just think ABCs!

• Meal planning: A diabetes meal plan should include a balance of nutritious foods from all food groups, prioritizing sources of fiber, heart-healthy protein, and healthy fats. Try to avoid saturated and trans fats, high-salt (sodium) foods, and high-sugar foods.

• Physical activity: Regular exercise can help improve heart health, blood

pressure, muscle strength, and insulin sensitivity. In people with type 2 diabetes, it may also help lower blood glucose and promote healthy weight loss.

• Finding your community: Supportive resources and community can be a real source of strength when living with diabetes. If you don’t know where to start, check out the American Diabetes Association’s Tools and Resources page and database of diabetes organizations and events.

Disclaimer:

The content on this page is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be relied on as medical advice. This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, evaluation, or treatment of a qualified health-care provider. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition, or if you are seeking medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment. Statements within this article have not been evaluated or approved by the Food and Drug Administration. n

Alcohol Use Disorder, Support, and the Path to Recovery

Submitted by AmeriHealth Caritas District of Columbia (DC)

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a significant health concern that affects individuals across various communities. Recognizing the signs, seeking support, and navigating the road to recovery are crucial steps for those living with this condition.

UNDERSTANDING ALCOHOL USE DISORDER

AUD is a pattern of alcohol use that involves problems controlling your drinking, being preoccupied with alcohol, or continuing to use alcohol even when it causes problems. It includes a level of drinking that is sometimes referred to as alcoholism.1 For individuals in minority communities, cultural, social, and economic factors may contrib-

ute to the development and persistence of alcohol-related issues. Signs and symptoms of AUD may include:1

• Excessive drinking: Regularly consuming large amounts of alcohol.

• Loss of control: Inability to limit or stop drinking.

• Neglecting responsibilities: Neglecting work, school, or family obligations due to alcohol use.

• Physical symptoms: Withdrawal symptoms like shakiness, sweating, or nausea when not drinking.

• Tolerance: Needing more alcohol to achieve a desired effect.

SEEKING SUPPORT

In many communities, there can be a stigma attached to seeking help for

AUD. It is important to understand that reaching out for support is a sign of strength, not weakness, and there are resources available. Community-based organizations and culturally competent therapists are great outlets for seeking support.

Finding a therapist who understands the cultural nuances of certain communities can make the recovery journey more relatable and comfortable. Engaging with others who share similar experiences can also help by providing a sense of belonging and understanding. Alcoholics Anonymous is a widely accessible option.

Family and friends also play an important role in supporting someone on the road to recovery. People with AUD will often not seek help until they have acknowledged that they have a problem. If you know someone living with this disorder, you can offer support in the following ways:

• Express concern. Share your observations with empathy, expressing genuine concern for their well-being.

• Encourage professional help. Suggest seeking guidance from a health care professional or counselor. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration offers confidential support and resources.

• Attend support groups together. Offer to attend support group meetings together for moral support.

THE ROAD TO RECOVERY

4. Set boundaries. Establish clear boundaries with potential triggers or environments that may lead to relapse. Work on recognizing and avoiding situations that jeopardize your recovery.

Recovering from AUD is not easy, but it is possible. Recovery is a process that requires self-reflection, dedication, and the desire to pursue positive change. Here are a few tips to guide individuals on the path to healing and empowerment:

1. Set realistic goals. Start with small, achievable goals to build confidence. Gradual progress is helpful to create a realistic recovery plan.

2. Develop a routine. Create a structured routine that can provide stability, minimize uncertainty, and help replace unhealthy habits.

3. Explore healthy coping mechanisms. Learn healthy ways to cope with stress and emotions. This can include mindfulness, meditation, or engaging in hobbies that bring you joy.

AUD is a challenge that can be overcome with the right support and resources. Recognizing the signs, seeking support, and embracing the road to recovery are steps that can transform lives. Remember, you are not alone, and there is help available.

Sources

1.“Alcohol Use Disorder,” Mayo Clinic, https://www.mayoclinic.org/ diseases-conditions/alcohol-use-disorder/ symptoms-causes/syc-20369243

All images are used under license for illustrative purposes only. Any individual depicted is a model. n

Stress Management: Navigating Techniques for Well-Being

In the hustle of everyday life, managing stress is essential for maintaining overall well-being. Prioritizing stress management can greatly contribute to a healthier lifestyle. Here are several key techniques, resources, and tips tailored to improve your stress coping skills:

1. Physical activity for stress release. Exercise is a proven method to alleviate stress and improve your mood. AmeriHealth Caritas DC enrollees can enjoy fitness classes through the Active&Fit program at no cost. Active&Fit offers daily classes on Facebook and YouTube. Visit www.amerihealthcaritasdc.com to learn more.

2. Time management. Gain better control of your time by organizing tasks and responsibilities for the day. Breaking down larger tasks into manageable steps can help if you feel overwhelmed and enhance productivity.

3. Mental wellness resources. There may be times when the feelings you are experiencing cause you emotional distress and interfere with your daily life. It may be helpful to speak with a trained behavioral health provider. AmeriHealth Caritas DC enrollees have access to a large network of behavioral health providers. For more information, contact Enrollee Services at 1-800-408-7511 (TTY 1-800-570-1190). You also can view our mental wellness guide at www.amerihealthcaritasdc.com.

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Nutrition Mission: Jerri Evans’ Journey with Juicing and Turning Natural

By Kayla Benjamin WI Climate & Environment Reporter

When sea moss became a TikTok health food sensation last summer, Jerri Evans had to laugh. At her juice company, Turning Natural, she’d been offering the ingredient for nearly a decade—with limited interest from customers.

“We’ve been selling sea moss since day one, and no one wanted it,” Evans, 38, said. “Now they’re like, ‘Okay, we need sea moss.’ And I’m like, ‘Where were you nine years ago?’”

In the years since Evans began Turning Natural, far more people have gotten interested in healthy, plantbased foods. But she advises people to take time to think about their dietary choices, rather than always hopping on the latest trend.

“We have access to so much more information, [but] I think it makes it actually harder, because people cannot

decipher or discern what is specifically for them,” she said. “Like we could do the absolute same thing, have the absolute same diet, and our bodies are going to respond differently.”

Evans is quick to say that she’s “not a doctor,” but her knowledge about and passion for the ways natural ingredients can impact our bodies runs deep.

Evans’ nutrition journey began during her high school years, when her mother, Annette, was diagnosed with breast cancer. Nauseous from chemotherapy and determined to get the nutrients she needed, Annette made fresh produce and juicing part of the family’s lifestyle—and started the Turning Natural business.

After spending almost 10 years in remission, Annette passed away in 2010 when cancer returned. Evans moved back to D.C. from Atlanta, quitting her job as an aeronautical engineer. Grieving and unsure what

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to do next, Evans decided to continue her mother’s legacy by addressing the food deserts her family had experienced.

“Once I got back to D.C., I realized that a lot had changed, but a lot hadn’t changed—especially when it came to access to healthy foods,” Evans said. “I was like, ‘I wonder if I could create something that was cool and fun that people wanted to be a part of.’”

Today, Turning Natural sells coldpressed juices with names like “Green Latifah” and “Mi’Kale Jackson” at six DMV locations, including stores in Anacostia and District Heights, Maryland. Turning Natural’s general manager, Michale Henderson, said the company has “created a place where health is cool.”

It hasn’t always been a smooth road; Evans, who paid a $10,000 settlement following a 2018 lawsuit over wage theft, says entrepreneurship “ages you in dog years.” But the company’s all-natural product and communi-

ty-oriented mission have helped it weather the storms. Henderson, who has known Evans since they were both 10 years old, has been there to watch it grow into a fitting legacy for Evans’ mother.

“I remember when Turning Natural was just Ms. Annette’s living room business,” Henderson wrote in an email. “When Jerri decided to open her first location, I would come in after work to help her prep fruit… I joined because I loved Ms. Annette, and I stick around because the mission is something I believe in.”

That mission, alongside a nutrient-filled product, have made Turning Natural a staple for some D.C.-area residents—among them, artist Naturel.

“Turning Natural—they’re doing a great thing with the cold press juices, the smoothies,” Henderson told the Washington Informer Bridge in a 2019 interview. “And they’re servicing our communities, so it can’t get better than that.”

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5 Evans with her mother, Annette. (Courtesy photo)

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