The Modern Chains of Slavery: Processed Sugar, Ultra-Processed Carbohydrates, and Alcohol

We are the Native Americans for Sovereignty and Preservation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the health and well-being of our communities. Today, we want to talk about a pressing issue affecting us all: consuming processed sugar, ultra-processed carbohydrates, and alcohol. We believe these substances are the modern chains of slavery, binding us to a cycle of poor health and dependence on the pharmaceutical industry.

The Problem with Processed Sugar 

Processed sugar is everywhere in our diets, from sodas to breakfast cereals and even in foods, you wouldn’t expect, like bread and pasta sauce. Unfortunately, consuming too much of it can lead to health problems such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. These conditions often require lifelong medication, making us reliant on pharmaceutical companies for our health and well-being.

The Issue with Ultra-Processed Carbohydrates 

Ultra-processed carbohydrates, found in foods like white bread, pastries, and fast food, is another culprit. These foods are stripped of their natural nutrients and fiber, leading to rapid spikes in blood sugar and insulin levels. Over time, this can result in insulin resistance, a precursor to type 2 diabetes. Again, this ties us to a cycle of medication and dependence on the pharmaceutical industry.

The Impact of Alcohol 

Alcohol, while socially accepted, has its health risks. Excessive consumption can lead to liver disease, heart problems, and even certain cancer. It can also lead to addiction, requiring medical intervention and, once again, creating a reliance on pharmaceutical treatments.

Gas Station Diet and Living in a Food Desert

Fast food, gas station snacks, and food deserts significantly contribute to unhealthy diets, often leading to obesity and other health issues. These foods are typically high in sugar, unhealthy fats, and sodium, while food deserts—areas with limited access to affordable, healthy food options—exacerbate the problem. However, there are ways to avoid these pitfalls. Try planning meals, preparing home-cooked meals, and choosing fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains when available. In food deserts, community and backyard gardens – even farming – can provide healthier alternatives. Remember, every step towards healthier eating contributes to the overall well-being of our communities.

Potential Health Risks Associated with Commodity Foods

• Bleached Flour: Bleached flour undergoes a chemical process to speed up aging and improve color and texture. This process can reduce the flour’s nutritional value, removing beneficial elements like fiber, iron, and B vitamins. 
• Canned Meats: Canned meats often contain high sodium levels, which can contribute to high blood pressure and heart disease. They may also contain preservatives like nitrates and nitrites, which have been linked to certain types of cancer.
• Artificial Flavored Chips and Snacks: Flaming Hot Cheetos are high in sodium and saturated fat, contributing to obesity, heart disease, and high blood pressure. 
• Sugary Drinks: Drinks like Mountain Dew are high in sugar, which can contribute to obesity, type 2 diabetes, and tooth decay. They also often contain caffeine, leading to dependence and associated withdrawal symptoms like headaches and irritability.
• Sugary Caffeinated Cream Coffees: These drinks can be high in both sugar and saturated fat, contributing to obesity, heart disease, and diabetes. 

Embracing the Ancestral Diet and Other Traditional Foodways

But there is a way to break these chains. We propose a return to the Ancestral Diet, a form of eating that our ancestors followed. This diet is rich in whole foods, lean proteins (chicken, beef, pork, deer, salmon, bison, elk, moose), fruits (berries, bananas, peaches, apples), nuts (raw or dry-roasted), cold-pressed oils (coconut, olive, avocado), vegetables (green greens – spinach, broccoli, asparagus, peas), and healthy fats, and low in processed sugars, ultra-processed carbohydrates, and alcohol. Studies have shown that this type of diet can help prevent chronic diseases and improve overall health. And stay hydrated and drink lots of water.

Affordability of the Ancestral Diet 

You might be thinking, “But isn’t eating healthy expensive?” Not necessarily. While some healthy foods can be pricier, there are plenty of affordable options. For example, buying fruits and vegetables in season, buying in bulk, choosing whole grains over processed ones, and cooking meals at home can all help to reduce costs. Plus, the long-term health benefits and potential savings on medical bills make it a worthwhile investment.

Some might say eating this way is expensive, but that’s not true! You can eat the Ancestral Diet on a budget. Here’s how:

1. Buy in Bulk: Foods like beans, rice, and oats are cheaper when you buy a lot at once. You can store them for a long time, too.
2. Seasonal Shopping: Fruits and vegetables are cheaper when they’re in season. Plus, they taste better!
3. Grow Your Own: If you have space, try growing your own fruits and vegetables. It’s fun; you’ll know exactly where your food comes from.
4. Hunt and Fish: If allowed in your area, hunting and fishing can be a great way to get lean, healthy protein.

We believe it’s time to break free from the modern chains of slavery to processed sugar, ultra-processed carbohydrates, and alcohol. By embracing the Ancestral Diet, we can take control of our health, reduce our dependence on the pharmaceutical industry, and honor our heritage. So let’s reclaim our health and our sovereignty, one meal at a time.