I remember it like it was yesterday. July 4, 2011 another late night in my studio. It was around midnight when I stumbled across the documentary Fat, Sick and Nearly Dead. A documentary about a middle age man who grew tired of dealing with multiple health challenges. The documentary revealed that food was both the problem and the solution. Suddenly the stars started to align, the angels began singing and for the first time I felt empowered about reclaiming my health.
Let me explain. I was in a continuous battle with diabetes, weight gain and low self esteem. I had become another African American male who ate poorly and didn’t exercise.
Chronic disease had become a close friend.
The documentary was an emotional ride that made me think and see food differently. It was beautifully laid out. The transformative power of whole plant foods. I can’t find the words to explain what was happening. After watching the documentary I found myself in front of a full length mirror in my studio. I stood there crying and staring at what I had let myself become. At that moment I declared, “I will never be this person again.”
The next day I brought a juicer and juice fasted for 31 days and my lifestyle path was set. I felt cleansed mentally and physically. I had found the answers. No meat, fish dairy or animal bi products. I was forever changed. Now fast forward 10 years and 70 pounds later. I find myself conducting cooking demos, starting community initiatives, talks, interviews, and events. All while continuously inspiring my 40K plus online followers.
Now enters Flatbelly Veg a community education tool disguised as a food truck with one mission. Encourage others to embrace good health for themselves, the community and our planet.
Joshua black | Founder
