Taking Action Against Health Inequalities: Tips for Entrepreneurs

As entrepreneurs, we often juggle multiple tasks, making it easy to put our health on the back burner.

Yet, neglecting our health can have long-term consequences, not just for us but also for our businesses.

At the recent Black Health Inequalities Summit, the key message was that tackling health inequalities requires proactive action on a daily basis.

We can't just attend events or share inspiring posts—we must take steps to create real change in our own lives, which will eventually ripple out to others as we continue the fight to change health inequalities. You can't fight it efficiently unless you take care of you!

Levi Roots, a health advocate and lifestyle change proponent, shared key insights that can help us take charge of our health—no matter how busy our entrepreneurial lives may be. Here’s how you can apply his tips to make lasting changes in your daily routine:

1. Reduce the “Devil’s Essentials” (sugar, salt, fast-releasing carbs).

Benefit: Reduces your risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and high blood pressure.

Try this: Swap white rice for brown, cut back on added sugar, and choose wholegrain options—especially for breakfast (as oppose to breakfast cereals) and those long workdays.

As entrepreneurs, we rely on high-energy foods to fuel us through busy schedules. But too much sugar and processed food can lead to energy crashes, making it harder to stay focused. Small changes in your diet can keep you sharp and energized.

2. Prep food so you taste the food, not just the seasoning powders.

Benefit: Enjoy natural flavours without the excess salt and additives.

Try this: Use fresh herbs and spices instead of pre-made seasoning blends.

Taking time to prepare meals with whole ingredients can save you money and time in the long run, and it helps you stay in control of what goes into your body. You'll find that eating whole foods actually satisfies your cravings better than processed meals.

3. Eat regularly and check if you're eating from hunger or habit.

Benefit: Helps regulate metabolism and reduces unnecessary snacking.

Try this: Pause before snacking and ask, “Am I really hungry?”

Entrepreneurs often eat on the go, which can lead to mindless eating. Taking a moment to check in with yourself can help you make more conscious decisions about what and when to eat, preventing overeating and keeping your energy steady throughout the day.

4. Snack on seeds and nuts instead of processed snacks.

Benefit: Boosts gut health and provides essential nutrients.

Try this: Keep almonds, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds handy for a nutritious snack.

We all need a quick snack at some point, but choosing the right one can make a big difference in how we feel. Healthy snacks help support brain function and keep us more productive throughout the day.

5. Respect your gut—give it a break from ultra-processed foods.

Benefit: Supports digestion, reduces inflammation, and improves energy.

Try this: Have “junk-free” days where you avoid processed snacks and takeaways.

When you’re running your business, it’s easy to reach for convenient, unhealthy food. But your gut—and your overall health—will thank you when you take breaks from ultra-processed foods.

6. Get regular check-ups—don’t wait until it’s too late.

Benefit: Early detection prevents major health issues.

Try this: Schedule a GP visit or check your BP at a pharmacy this month.

As an entrepreneur, it's tempting to keep pushing through health concerns to keep your business going. However, proactive health checks will ensure you're running at your best, both for your work and your well-being.

7. Learn about the food you’re eating—knowledge is power!

Benefit: Empowers you to make better choices without extreme dieting.

Try this: Read ingredient labels—do you recognize them all?

Understanding what’s in your food gives you the power to make informed choices. This doesn’t mean you have to go on a diet but instead become more aware of how your food impacts your energy and overall health.

Levi’s own health transformation shows that you don’t need extreme workouts to achieve lasting changes. By making consistent, intentional lifestyle changes, he improved his health and felt better than ever. And as entrepreneurs, we have the power to do the same, with small daily actions leading to big results.

Remember: Your health is YOUR responsibility. Take charge of your health, and your business will thrive as a result.

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