Sustainable Eating and Healthy Foods

Sustainable eating is about more than helping the environment.

It is also about paying more attention to healthy foods and breaking the overeating cycle. It sounds so grandiose, but it’s actually quite simple. Food is responsible for around 30 percent of greenhouse gases. Eco-friendly eating options are healthier, both in terms of quality and quantity of foods.

For a start, stop throwing away food. An average household throws away 30% of the food it buys. It means you are throwing away money, so either freeze leftovers or shop less.

Start shopping at a farmer’s market. Fresh, seasonal, locally produced fruits and vegetables are irreplaceable, not to mention healthier than frozen supermarket products. The easiest way to make a delicious snack for the family is to put various fruits and nuts into a blender, and you get a protein and fiber-filled juice. Add honey and dark chocolate or cocoa to make it more kid friendly.

Generations grew up thinking meat, especially red meat, is great for us. Turns out that’s not true. Not only that, red meat is dangerous for your heart and overall health; it also has one of the highest environmental impacts of all food production. The solution is simple: lower your meat intake. Introduce meat-free days to your family, and focus more on leafy greens.

You can save money and get involved with growing your food. Even a small balcony garden will do for a start. It doesn’t have to be potatoes or strawberries, but you can undoubtedly start growing herbs. They will make every dish more distinctive. Rosemary, mint, and thyme seem to grow without any assistance, while basil does require a bit of tending. You might even get to feel more relaxed when you’re in your tiny garden.

Introduce mindful eating to your family. Start small, no phones allowed during family meals. Then, start noticing the tastes, even the chewing process. It sounds strange, and it will be at first. But we got so used to working on auto-pilot than we need these small and weird reminders to be present. The more you notice your eating habits, the more you will choose healthier food options.