A few weeks ago while visiting my oh-so-blunt doctor, I learned that I was at serious risk of developing type 2 diabetes, and to top it off, I also had high blood pressure. Really, this came as no surprise. 1 in 4 Americans today are diagnosed with hypertension. High blood pressure can lead to strokes, heart disease and kidney failure, and those of you who know me, know that this is a very sensitive subject for me and my family. In 1992, my mother who lived with diabetes, was also diagnosed with hypertension and heart disease, and in April of this year, she passed away after a courageous battle with these illnesses. She was only 52 years old.
As of 2007, heart disease has been the leading cause of death in the United States, Canada, and England, accounting for 25.4% of deaths in the U.S. alone. Today we know that high blood pressure is one of the leading causes of heart disease, and I knew when my doctor gave the diagnosis, I had a lot of work to do to change my life and improve my health.Eating a low-fat, low-sodium diet is one of the many changes that I am trying to make. It has been very difficult. I'm quickly realizing that changing bad habits is always an uphill battle and will never be easy. Recently, however, I had the opportunity to interview best-selling author Tristi Pinkston, and I was thrilled to discover her newest release, Bless Your Heart, a cookbook filled with delicious low-sodium recipes. Right away I knew this book was for me and I'm very excited to feature her today.
Tristi Pinkston is the author of several historical fiction novels including Strength to Endure, and her newest mystery novel, Dearly Departed, a Secret Sisters Mystery . She is an amazingly talented author and editor. To learn more about Tristi, visit her Blog today!
What made you decide to write a low-sodium cookbook?
When my doctor first asked me to eat a low-sodium diet, I was floored. I had no idea what to eat—everything in my kitchen, except the produce, was high in sodium. So I basically starved for two days until I realized I had to get serious and figure this thing out. The more recipes I tried from online, though, the more discouraged I got. Everything was hard to make and was expensive. So I decided I’d have to do it myself. By making it a project, I was able to find some fun in it and stay focused.
What was most enjoyable about the process of writing Bless Your Heart?
Eating the food, of course! And having fun experimenting to discover how to cut the sodium while maintaining taste. It was like being a mad scientist in my own laboratory.
What is your funniest kitchen incident?
Um … might have to skip this one. I can’t think of anything.
When did you start cooking?
I’ve been cooking since I was about five. My mom let us into the kitchen as soon as we showed any interest in it. I invented such amazing things as Soldier’s Surprise (a sandwich with honey and cinnamon), Soldier’s Delight (the same sandwich, only with butter added) and carrot oatmeal salad, with shredded carrots, raisins, and oatmeal. I’m sorry to say, none of these recipes are included in the cookbook.
What were your favorite dishes to cook?
The desserts, absolutely! But they were all a lot of fun. I only used recipes that were quick and easy—I’m not the kind to spend three hours in the kitchen for one meal. They’re also inexpensive, for the most part, and they’re all family friendly. You can feed your whole family this way without making anyone miserable.
This book is currently on a pre-order special. Order between June 25th and July 10th and receive not only the first copies off the press, but as a bonus, I will send you a sneak peek - the first chapter of my new Secret Sisters novel, Hang 'em High, being released this August. In addition, get 10% off the cover price!
Title: Bless Your Heart
Cost: $9.99 Now: $8.99
Shipping and Handling: $3.50
Total: $12.49
Looks like an awesome cookbook!
ReplyDeleteFun story and great sounding cookbook. Much needed. Good luck!
ReplyDelete