Green eating is not just a diet, it’s a way of life. Learn the benefits of this healthy lifestyle along with ways to adjust your eating habits to be a green eater.
Green eating is about making healthy, natural choices when it comes to the foods we eat along with choosing foods that are healthy for our planet. By making the lifestyle switch to eating green as often as possible, we’re saving our environment (and waistline) in more ways than one.
Eating green is better for your health, it gives you more of a variety in fresh produce, it reduces fuel consumption and global warming and it helps the local environment.
Eat locally
One of the best ways that you can start eating green is by purchasing as many items as possible that are locally grown. Though grocery stores are stocked with all the produce you can imagine, if it’s not in season, it has to travel thousands of miles to get there. When food travels great distances, our air quality is reduced and pollution is increased. Choosing to buy from local farmers ensures you’ll be eating fresher foods with not as many chemicals than if you were to buy from the grocery store, plus it helps the economy within your community.
Cut back on waste
The Natural Resource Defense Council recently found that American families dispose of more than 33 pounds of food a month, or $2,275 per year. More wasted food means more wasted natural resources and more wasted energy on food disposal. To cut back on waste, don’t overbuy and stick to a list. Give leftovers away or invite friends over for dinner if you have more than you need.
Check out this list of farmers markets to find one in your area >>
Go organic
Though organic food can come with a higher price, it comes with a much lower risk to your body and the environment. Organic foods aren’t just produce — they’re also dairy products, grains, meats, beers and wines. They contain fewer pesticides than nonorganic foods and help protect the air, the land and the wildlife. Organic also means no fancy packaging — which is both expensive to make and harmful to the planet.
Health benefits
In addition to being much better for the environment, eating green is significantly better for your body. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, fruits and vegetables should take up the majority of your plate during meals. Dark greens and lush fruits are loaded with antioxidants, rich in cancer-fighting fiber and will lower your risk for heart disease.
Losing weight
If you do decide to make the switch to green eating, expect to lose a few pounds in the process. Naturally, by choosing foods that are fresh, locally grown and just plain better for you, you’re going to be eating fewer calories than if you were to stick to the fancy packaged, full-of-sugar processed junk. Give green eating a try for a few weeks and see if you feel a difference in your body. We guarantee this is one lifestyle you’ll want to stick to!
More on green eating
Eat green to boost your immune system
How eating organic improves your child’s health
10 Ways to start eating green every day
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