Dust evolved from the pandemic as a real “rose from concrete” as families all over the world lost loved ones, communities were divided on how administrations handled or should have handled the virus. We had anti maskers, quarantine extremists, social shamers and so on. But the reality check was and especially in the U.S. that those that were affected at an alarming rate were minority communities, the same communities who have higher rates of diabetes, obesity, hypertension and other diseases that are preventable through a proper diet and exercise.

I felt compelled to do something, me, just a single mom, latina from the city of Angels. I began to research. The statistics I found were just plain crazy, like ⅓ of Americans don’t have a single fruit a day. Nine out of ten don’t have their daily intake of vegetables and by 2025 80% of Americans will be obese!

So you mean to tell me the country with the strongest economy, 1st world, progressive…put aside our election drama has the worst diets??? Even armed with this data we still forecast a decline in our health. 

My theory is the lack of education on health and nutrition. Being a woman of color our culture doesn’t make it easy to eat right with all those foods that taste, “oh so good” but so bad for our gut and overall health. 

I am no stranger to disease with my family being afflicted with diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity, I lost my father when he was only 42 due to complications with these afflictions. I always thought these diseases were just genetics and it was my destiny, but science has found otherwise. I myself have not lived the perfect healthy life, I am sure I have done lots of damage living my life to the fullest and another reason I have become obsessed with trying to balance all that with nutrition. 

I have studied different diets, centennials, foods and culture through travel, testing products and supplements, powders, herbs….you name it! I realized what made me feel different good or bad. Essentially, you are what you eat! Once on the right program, I was more energized, happier and even my mood and focus was sharper. I hope to share all of these benefits with you and that you share with those you love!

Powder to the People!

Read words from Dust's Founder, Eliza Marie Velardez on how she was motivated to start this wellness brand in her community.