Do you want to eat healthily but struggle to stick to a strict diet? Or do you want to eat more environmentally friendly but don’t know how to start? There are many easy ways to eat environmentally friendly, and we’ve compiled five of the easiest.
By following these tips, you’ll be eating healthier and doing your part to help save the planet!
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Super Easy Ways to Eat Environmentally Friendly
Try to Purchase locally-grown produce
Purchase locally grown produce whenever possible to minimize your impact on the environment. Local produce is typically pesticide- and herbicide-free, meaning that it’s less harmful to the environment. Plus, it’s usually cheaper and healthier than produce shipped from far away.
If at All Possible, Eat Foods Raw
Eating raw foods is one of the easiest way to eat environmentally friendly. Not only does it reduce the amount of energy and resources used in food production, but it also reduces the amount of waste generated.
Raw foods are typically lower in calories and contain more nutrients than cooked or processed foods. They’re also easier to digest, which means they help improve your overall health. In addition, they’re packed with enzymes and other vitamins and minerals essential for a healthy body.
Though it may not be convenient initially, eating raw foods is worth the effort! It’s one of the simplest and most efficient ways to reduce environmental impact while improving health and well-being.
Eat What You Have First, and Never Waste Food
One of the most important things you can do to eat environmentally friendly is to eat what you have first. This means that if you have fruits or vegetables already in season, you should try to eat them as soon as possible.
This will help reduce the time and energy needed to farm and transport the crops, which in turn reduces the environmental impact of the food.
Next, make sure that you’re not wasting food. This can be a tough habit to break, but it will become easier if you take a few simple steps. For example, keep track of what meals and snacks you’ve already eaten so that you don’t waste any food that’s still edible.
Put your leftovers in the fridge or freezer so that they can be used later in salads or as sandwich toppings. Last but not least, always bring your own lunch to work so that you don’t have to waste any more food than necessary!
Consume Seasonal Foods
Eating foods that are in season is important because these items are typically lower in calories and have more nutrients. This will help you stay healthy and fit without counting calories or obsessing over your diet.
To make sure you’re eating foods that are in season, try the following:
- Check the food guide pyramid to see which food groups are considered “healthy” each month.
- Look for fruits and vegetables in season during the month you’re looking for them.
Eat Less Meat
Meat is one of the most environmentally damaging foods you can eat, and it’s not the only thing bad for your health. Consuming a lot of meat is also linked to numerous health problems, including heart disease and obesity.
Instead of consuming meat regularly, try substituting it with other protein sources, like tofu or plant-based meats. These alternatives are not only healthier but also more sustainable because they don’t require any resources to produce. Plus, they often taste better, too!
Support Restaurants That Purchase Their Products From Locally-owned Markets
When you dine out, it’s essential to consider where your food comes from. By supporting restaurants that purchase their products from locally owned markets, you’re doing your part to help protect the environment by choosing to eat environmentally friendly.
Local markets are typically more sustainable and eco-friendly than large corporate stores. They’re also more likely to use quality ingredients, making your food taste better. Plus, supporting local businesses helps create jobs and boost the economy.
So next time you’re out eating, consider going to a restaurant that uses local products. It might not be easy – but it sure will be worth it!
Try Growing Vegetables of Your Own
Gardening is one of the simplest, most sustainable, and environment-friendly ways to eat—and it’s also incredibly fun!
Many different types of vegetables can be grown in a garden, each with its benefits. For example, leafy greens like lettuce and spinach are high in nutrients and antioxidants, which can help reduce the risk of cancer and other health problems.
They’re also low in calories and nutrient-dense, perfect for people who want to lose weight or maintain a healthy diet. Garden veggies also tend to be cheaper than grocery store vegetables, which means you can save money while still eating healthy.
To start gardening, all you need is some soil, seeds, water, sunlight (or artificial light if you’re using plants that require it), and a little patience. There’s no experience necessary – give it a try!
Ask Questions!
Ask questions when you’re grocery shopping, cooking, or eating out. This will help you to make more informed decisions about what to buy and eat, and it will also help you to reduce your environmental impact. Here are some questions that you can ask:
- Where was this food grown?
- How was it transported?
- What ingredients were used, and where did those ingredients come from?
- How much energy was used in producing this food?
Recycle Your Food
There are several easy ways to eat environmentally friendly food that don’t require a lot of effort or extra planning. One great way to recycle your food is to compost it.
This process involves breaking down organic material like food scraps into plant-based fertilizers and soil, which can help improve land quality and reduce the need for traditional fertilizers.
If You Have Leftovers, Make Another Meal Out of Them
If you have leftovers, make another meal out of them. This way, you’ll be using food that would have otherwise gone to waste, which reduces the amount of food that ends up in the landfill.
Also, this can be a great way to save both money and food since you do not have to buy new food every time you get hungry. Reheat the leftovers in the oven or microwave, and you’re good to go!
