Nutrition Goes Green

Interest in “environmental nutrition” and sustainable practices is growing fast. Here are a few green tips that are good for you and Mother Earth:
Pass on processed foods: Processed foods high in sugars, sodium and devoid of essential fiber. Packaging for processed foods, it turns out, may also carry contaminants into the food as it sits on the shelf.
Grab a Clean Catch: Nutritional benefits of eating seafood include its power-packed protein content, anti-inflammatory omega 3 fatty acids and its rich selenium and zinc content. Be selective with seafood and avoid those that are high in contaminants and toxins. For example, sushi lovers should skip the blue fin tuna and try Atlantic mackerel or farmed oysters instead. Some species are best farm-raised when sustainable aquaculture practices are used however, stay with wild salmon. Refer to www.oceanslive.org  to stay up to date on the safest and most sustainable seafood.
Enjoy more meatless meals:  If you are a daily meat eater, try a meatless meal 2 days a week. Substitute beans or lentils for meat, and include some whole grains in the mix, as they contain protein too.  Lowering meat consumption not only helps the planet, but it will reduce your risk for cancer, heart disease, diabetes and obesity.
Green up your kitchen: Get rid of the antibacterial soap and use an environment-friendly soap like the 365 brand.  Use glass and stainless steel bowls and ditch the Teflon and aluminum pans. Use baking soda and white vinegar for spotless cleaning. 
Plant a Garden:  Growing your own vegetables in your own garden is one of the best steps you can take to healthier and greener eating. Getting your hands in the dirt is an almost magical way of  reconnecting with Mother Earth. If you don’t have space, join a CSA or shop at Farmer’s Markets. Refer to www.localharvest.org for resources.
Cleanse with  Detoxifying Foods: These are the simple foods that are fiber rich and free of chemicals and processing. Sign up for my Spring detox through Foods program on April 8 and get all the tools you need to make a healthy start to Spring and Summer.