Chew-icide: Killing ourselves with every bite.

In the book Brainwashed, Tom Burrell discusses the psychological and historical reasons behind overeating in the Black community, tying it to cultural conditioning and the long-lasting effects of slavery and systemic oppression.

Overeating and Its Roots in Survival Mentality

Burrell argues that overeating in the Black community is not just about personal choices or lack of discipline but is deeply rooted in a survival mentality that dates back to slavery. Enslaved people often didn’t know when or where their next meal would come from, so they ate as much as possible when food was available. This ingrained behavior has been passed down through generations, influencing eating habits today.

The Emotional Aspect of Food

He also talks about how food is often used as an emotional escape—a way to cope with stress, trauma, and feelings of inferiority that have been reinforced by systemic racism and media portrayals. This is what he refers to as a form of “self-medication,” where food becomes a source of comfort in an often hostile world.

The Role of Advertising and Media

Burrell highlights how fast food and unhealthy eating habits have been aggressively marketed to Black communities, contributing to high rates of obesity, diabetes, and other health issues. He critiques the way corporations exploit cultural traditions and emotional connections to food while disregarding the long-term health consequences.

Breaking Free from Unhealthy Eating Habits

In Brainwashed, Tom Burrell not only explores the roots of overeating in the Black community but also suggests ways to break free from these deeply ingrained habits. His solutions center on awareness, empowerment, and cultural shifts to reclaim health and well-being.

1. Acknowledging the Psychological and Historical Roots

Burrell emphasizes that change starts with recognizing that unhealthy eating patterns are not just about personal weakness but are deeply tied to a history of scarcity, survival mentality, and emotional coping mechanisms. Understanding this can help break the cycle by shifting the mindset from reactive eating to intentional nourishment.

2. Changing the Narrative Around Food

• Instead of seeing food as just comfort or an escape, it should be reframed as fuel for empowerment.

• Emphasizing traditional African diets—rich in vegetables, grains, and lean proteins—can help shift cultural perceptions of what "soul food" truly is.

• Moving away from media-driven food choices that push fast food and processed products on Black communities.

3. Promoting Healthier Alternatives Without Losing Cultural Identity

• Burrell highlights the importance of modifying traditional dishes to be healthier without losing their cultural essence.

• Encouraging home-cooked meals over fast food, using fresh ingredients while keeping familiar flavors intact.

4. Combating Food Deserts and Corporate Influence

• Many Black communities suffer from food deserts, where access to fresh, healthy food is limited. Burrell suggests:

  • Supporting local farmers' markets and co-ops

  • Advocating for better grocery store options in underserved areas

  • Growing food at home or in community gardens

5. Mental and Emotional Healing

Since overeating is often linked to emotional distress, Burrell stresses the need for healing from trauma and stressthrough methods like:

• Therapy and mental health awareness

• Meditation, exercise, and alternative stress relievers instead of emotional eating

• Community support and positive role models promoting health-conscious lifestyles

Burrell makes it clear that changing eating habits isn’t just about dieting—it’s about breaking free from psychological chains that have been passed down for generations. By understanding the past, reshaping cultural attitudes toward food, and prioritizing holistic health, individuals and communities can reclaim control over their well-being.

Emancipate yourself from mental slavery, Non but OURSELVES can free our minds. -Bob Marley