How Sobriety Transformed This Chef’s Connection with Food: A Journey to Wellness

My mom had a complicated relationship with food, especially salt. She avoided it like the plague, thinking it was harmful. When I was a kid, dinner meant baked chicken, steamed veggies, and loads of herbs—just no salt. For her, salt was a villain. She believed it contributed to the heart issues that plagued her father, who avoided sodium after his first heart attack but still faced another at just 59. So, we never had salt in the house, except for a hidden shaker for guests.

As a teenager, I didn’t appreciate her healthy meals. Instead, I drifted toward less nutritious options. College life on the California coast introduced me to beer and cocaine. I didn’t care about cooking or eating well. My meals were usually at odd hours in bustling kitchens, devouring greasy food while chasing my next drink. I was living a reckless lifestyle, indulging in everything I had once shunned.

Eventually, my unhealthy habits caught up with me. Standing on a rooftop in NYC, I felt the weight of my choices. I was aware that I had to change or face dire consequences. A friend encouraged me to attend my first Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) meeting. That day, I realized I needed help and support. I embraced my identity as an addict, and it felt freeing.

As I got sober, my approach to food changed. I began to enjoy cooking again, returning to meals like my mom used to make—only this time, I added salt. I learned to appreciate its role in flavor. I massaged greens with kosher salt and roasted chicken to get that perfect golden crust. I remembered how cooking brought satisfaction and connection.

Now, I live far from my mom. When I visit her, I try to cook meals that will surprise her. I watch her expressions when she tastes something enhanced by just a pinch of kosher salt. It’s rewarding to share these culinary moments and show her the joy of good food.

Beyond just meals, I wish I could express my gratitude for her dedicated efforts in raising me. I want her to know that I’ve shed the fear of dying from what I eat and instead embraced the joy of living. Both of us deserve to savor life’s flavors, and understanding the purpose of ingredients, including salt, is part of that journey.

Interestingly, a recent study showed that attitudes toward salt have shifted over the years. Many people now recognize its importance in cooking, especially in enhancing the taste of fresh ingredients. Nutritionists suggest that using salt judiciously can actually lead to healthier eating habits, as it encourages the consumption of more vegetables and home-cooked meals.

Ultimately, life is about balance. It’s possible to enjoy flavorful meals without overindulging. Understanding how to use salt wisely is just one part of enjoying the culinary journey. Both my mom and I are slowly learning that food can connect us, and it’s okay to season our lives with flavor.

Source link