THE HEALTH ISSUE

Eating is a part of everyday life. As the old saying goes, do you live to eat or eat to live?

Here in South Louisiana, I think most people would agree we live to eat. Our social gatherings are typically centered around some kind of meal. Crawfish boils, BBQ cookouts, potluck church dinners –all of these are reasons for us to visit and eat! We also boast some of the most talented chefs and amazing restaurants in the state right here in the bayou region.

Our area is also unfortunately known for ranking high in health categories that are greatly impacted by diet. In 2022, Louisiana ranked: 42nd in diagnosis of cardiovascular diseases; 47th in percentage of obese adults; 46th in percentage of adults with diabetes.

Those numbers to me are astounding. But then I take a step back and look at my own diet and the way I eat. Breakfast is usually a cup of coffee running out the door. Lunch is hit or miss. If I eat, it may be a snack of some sort like trail mix or a quick sandwich. Dinner is usually from a local restaurant. We rarely cook. While I know healthier options exist on menus, I’m usually starving and eat a day’s worth of calories at that one meal, right before bed.

These habits have led me to where I am today - 42 years old, obese by medical standards, lacking energy and always tired. Nearly all the “health issues” I have could be “fixed” through proper diet and exercise.

A family member recently reminded me that a healthy diet is not about strict limitations or depriving yourself of the foods you love. Rather, it’s about feeling great, having more energy, improving your health, and boosting your mood.

Our stories in this year’s Health Issue all center around eating healthy, from how foods are grown, to how they are cooked, and to how they can lend a healthy hand to your body.

Our first story introduces you to Cajun Boots Farm, an aquaponics farm that specializes in leafy greens, microgreens, raising catfish and more! Tonilynn Brown and her husband Mark grow and produce your favorite farmer’s market finds through aquaponics, which focuses on converting and reusing. Learn more about the process and Tonilynn’s next farm-totable dream starting on page 14.

Houma native Lauren Breaux and her husband Brandon began researching holistic healing practices for Brandon’s debilitating headaches and discovered the power of superfood American elderberry. This led them to create Cockeyed Farms in Folsom, La. The farm is the first commercial American elderberry farm in Louisiana. Their syrups and honeys can be found locally as well. The Breaux’s share more about their farm and what they hope to accomplish starting on page 36.

Nicholls student Rodney Woods is turning his passion into a lifestyle! Rodney is a vegan, herbalist and entrepreneur, creating specialty teas for his own store, Duke’s Apothecary, as well as other local shops. His interest in growing his own clean, fresh vegetables has led to amazing meals and even more amazing photography! Learn what’s next for Rodney, starting on page 40.

The Health Issue would not be complete without our annual What’s Up, Doc? special section. Starting on page 19, we highlight local medical professionals and give you a closer look behind the scenes into their practices. Be sure to check it out!

As summer continues to help produce a bountiful harvest, I hope we can learn to eat healthier and live longer. Here’s to your health, my friends! POV

What do you do to shake off steam and the stress of life?

Heidi

First, I pray to Jesus and God. They always help me with the stress of life. I also enjoy going to yoga class, running, and step class or dancing. I feel getting exercise helps me tremendously to shake off steam! I also just enjoy spending time with friends and family!

JAY

Put on a set of headphones, play a variety of music and write. Sometimes I write code for a project. Other times the writing involves articles, a book (in progress) or letters.

Jayme

When I get really stressed, I turn to God and prayer. At 60 years old I have finally learned how to “let go and let God”. I am so grateful for my faith because it has brought me through many stressful times in my life. I also have been blessed with my first grandchild, Theodore! And when I am with him all the worries of the world disappear!

Ketti

When life gets stressful I usually listen to music. I typically take a short drive by myself while listening to music to provide a mental distraction from anything that might be bothering me at the moment. Sometimes I even get into cleaning around the house while playing music because it gives me that energy boost to clean and relax my mind. And of course a clean house always makes me happy.

John

An ice-cold beer always does the trick. But when it doesn't I enjoy spending time with my family and gardening. I particularly enjoy growing my gardens from seed.

Monique

I like to hit the gym to shake off some steam. It makes me feel good and makes me forget about whatever is going on. I also like to curl up with a good TV series and binge watch. It helps me escape reality and unwind.