Faith, Food, and Black Women's Health

This episode is sponsored by the FREE Weight Loss Masterclass. Sign up today! https://www.healthyformypurpose.com/weight-loss-masterclass-opt-in-podcast Get healthy plant-based recipes here: https://danielsplate.com/ In this episode of the Healthy for My Purpose podcast, we sit down with the brilliant Dr. Althea Joseph, PhD—registered dietitian nutritionist and professor at Oakwood University—to explore the intersection of Black women, faith, and weight loss. Dr. Joseph shares her research on how religious environments, cultural norms, body image, emotional eating, and systemic challenges influence health outcomes among Black women. From hair politics and BMI myths to generational health patterns and the role of the church, this conversation offers eye-opening insights, practical advice, and a call to reclaim our health through faith, knowledge, and community. Whether you're navigating your own health journey or supporting others, this is an episode you don't want to miss. Key Quotes:  “We’re not represented well in the literature—and that needs to change.”  “You don’t have to throw out your culture to be healthy—just tweak it.”  “Being healthy is a spiritual practice.”  “Love yourself. Be confident. And take one step at a time.” About Dr. Joseph: Dr. Althea Joseph is a native of southern Michigan. She earned a Master of Science in Human Nutrition and a Bachelor of Science in Clinical Laboratory Science from Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Michigan. Her Doctoral degree is in Integrative and Functional Nutrition from Saybrook University. Her dissertation focused on the relationship between religious activities and obesity in Black women living in Huntsville, Alabama. With nearly 20 years of experience, Dr. Joseph is a practicing Registered Dietitian Nutritionist. Her professional background includes community nutrition and food systems, and she has served as a corporate dietitian for a chain of psychiatric hospitals in Arizona, Indiana, and Texas. She provides medical nutrition therapy for patients with various health conditions, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, gastrointestinal disorders, malnutrition, and renal disease. Dr. Joseph's research interests center on the factors that influence food preferences, eating behaviors, and dietary patterns among African Americans. She remains active in professional organizations, having served as a nominating committee member for the National Organization of Blacks in Dietetics and Nutrition (NOBIDAN), a member interest group of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Additionally, she has been featured in the magazine Michiana Life. Beyond her professional commitments, Dr. Joseph is dedicated to helping individuals achieve their optimal nutritional needs by educating them about mindful eating and supporting sustainable health goals. About Sersie & Gigi The Healthy for My Purpose Podcast is designed to inspire you to reclaim your health and invite God into your health journey. This podcast will help you connect being healthy to your divine purpose. You will walk away seeing your health as a spiritual practice. Sersie Blue is a faith-based health coach and seminary graduate (MDiv in Counseling). Gigi Carter is a Certified Nutritionist (MS), Diplomate and Certified Lifestyle Medicine Professional through the American College of Lifestyle Medicine. These ladies are passionate about sharing the power of plant-based nutrition and faith. Music Credit Bliss by Luke Bergs / bergscloud Creative Commons — Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported — CC BY-SA 3.0 Free Download / Stream: https://bit.ly/33DJFs9 Music promoted by Audio Library • Bliss – Luke Bergs (No Copyright Music)