Nourishing Communities: Growing Nutrient-Rich Diets from Soil to Harvest in Food Deserts

Hey, world-changers! I’m here to tell you something exciting — some of you may know that not only have I co-founded a non profit focused on growing food in marginalized and climate vulnerable regions, Growing to Give, I host a health and wellbeing show, Real Talk. As I've been doing this I have discovered we’re on the brink of a nutritional revolution, and it all starts in YOUR backyard or outside your front door!

In low-income neighborhoods and food deserts, access to fresh, nutrient-rich foods can feel out of reach. But guess what? We have the power to change that by turning to the earth — and to the amazing power of plant-based diets and essential oils.

We all know how crucial it is to have access to nutritious food, right? But too many communities, especially in food deserts, are cut off from the fresh fruits and vegetables their bodies need. My friend Dr. Roni Deluz who is often a speaker on the show talks often about how we lack nutrients in our diet and that is a leading cause of the health challenges we face in this day and age. The solution? Growing it ourselves. Yes, YOU can grow healthy, protein-packed, vitamin-rich plants right in your community — and I’m going to share with you how!

Grow What You Need: From Soil to Seeds

It all starts with good, healthy soil and a seed. The beauty of nature is that you can grow the essentials almost anywhere, regardless of the climate. We’re talking about legumes, like lentils, chickpeas, and black beans. Not only are they great plant-based proteins (perfect for supplementing or replacing meat), but they can thrive in various climates with minimal resources!

Imagine teaching communities how to turn a handful of beans into a garden of nourishment! Combine these with fast-growing veggies like spinach, kale, and zucchini, and you’ve got yourself a powerhouse of nutrients. Let’s not forget tomatoes, peppers, and herbs like basil and oregano that add flavor and nutrients without the high price tag!

Essential Oils: Inside and Out

Here’s a game-changer: essential oils derived from plants, like peppermint and oregano, can boost health from the inside out by promoting digestion and boosting immunity. But let’s not stop there — healthy cooking oils like olive oil, avocado oil, and coconut oil are packed with essential fatty acids that keep our bodies strong. Not only do they support heart health, but they can also be used in countless dishes to amplify both flavor and nutrition.

These oils, when paired with the fruits and vegetables grown locally, can transform simple meals into nutritious powerhouses. Plus, by encouraging the use of these healthier oils, we help families cut down on processed fats and improve overall well-being.

The Power of Learning: From Seed to Plate

Growing food is one thing, but understanding how to care for it and preserve it is another. Communities need hands-on guidance — from improving soil quality to selecting seeds, nurturing growth, and then harvesting and preserving their crops. And the best part? It’s all about sustainability.

By teaching people how to preserve their bounty — from canning veggies to drying legumes — they’ll be able to feed themselves long after harvest season is over. This isn’t just about growing food; it’s about building long-term food security. We should not rely on anyone else to feed our families or else we end up being fed whatever they want to feed us and we lose control of our food supply.

Why Plant-Based Protein?

Let’s be real: meat can be expensive, and for many, it’s out of reach. But guess what? Plant-based proteins like beans, peas, nuts and lentils can do wonders. They’re rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals — all while being sustainable to grow in your neighborhood. Plus, with the right combinations, you can get all the essential amino acids your body needs!

And here’s where the oils come in: combining plant-based meals with nutrient-dense oils like avocado oil can help people get the fats they need for energy and brain health. This dynamic duo makes it easier for families to get the complete nutrition they need without the high cost of meat.

And here’s where nuts come in: trees like walnut, almond, and pecan can be grown in backyards, parks, and even along city sidewalks! These trees provide essential fats and proteins, helping communities supplement their diets with nutrient-rich, locally sourced food. Nuts, along with plant-based proteins and healthy oils, are a powerful way to create self-sustaining, nutrition-packed meals that improve health and lower costs.

Herbs: Nature's Little Powerhouses

Let’s not forget about herbs! Growing herbs like basil, thyme, mint, and cilantro is easy and can be done almost anywhere — in backyards, balconies, windowsills, or community gardens. These little green wonders add incredible flavor to meals and are packed with nutrients that support digestion, immunity, and overall wellness. Plus, they’re low-maintenance, making them the perfect addition to any garden. With herbs, you’re not just growing food; you’re cultivating health in every meal!

This is the future — empowering communities to grow what they need, reclaiming the earth, and building a sustainable, nutrient-rich lifestyle right where they live. We need to come together to support and teach each other — from soil to seeds, from harvest to plate.

Are you ready to roll up your sleeves, get in the dirt, and help make this a reality? Together, we can feed the world, one garden at a time. Let’s grow together!