Creating an Environment of Health Within Our Household with Shawn Stevenson | 271 | Kelly LeVeque

Health Struggles

Shawn Stevenson faced significant health challenges from a young age, growing up in a food desert with limited access to nutritious options. His environment was saturated with fast food and ultra-processed items, contributing to his early health issues, including severe asthma and a broken hip at just 15 due to low bone density 1. Despite these challenges, he was determined to find a way out through sports, but his aspirations were cut short by a degenerative disc disease diagnosis at 20 2.

My aspirations for playing at the next level were extinguished. At the age of 20, I'm diagnosed with degenerative disc disease.

--- Shawn Stevenson

This diagnosis was a turning point, leading him to question the standard care he received and the environmental factors impacting his health.

   

Nutritional Shift

Shawn's journey towards better health began with a shift in mindset and a newfound understanding of nutrition. He realized the power of food in shaping his body and health, leading him to change his academic focus to science and biology 3. This transformation was sparked by a visit to a health food store, where he discovered the importance of omega-3s for bone density, a revelation that changed his approach to nutrition 4.

Once I became aware that I have the power to choose what I'm making my body and my brain out of, everything changed.

--- Shawn Stevenson

This awakening not only improved his health but also inspired him to educate others, eventually leading to a career in health and wellness.