When you want to live a greener and healthier life, there are a variety of strategies that you can start with. One of those strategies should focus on your eating habits. Because of the impact that food consumption and production have on the planet, adjustments to food, waste, and daily routines can have a big impact on the planet. Here are seven tips to help you improve your eating habits and to help you be more environmentally friendly every day.
Rely on Plant-Based Products
You may be surprised at the number of items that you use that incorporate animal-based products. You can swap out these options for plant-based alternatives which are far less impactful on the planet. There are alternatives to everything from vitamins to health supplements to snacks. You can still enjoy a delicious and healthy lifestyle with options like green superfood, all while reducing your environmental impact.
Check Your Sources
A little bit of research can often go a long way to support the planet and your health. Take a bit of time to check the companies that you are supporting. It can often come as a surprise and disappointment how many companies participate in practices that cause unnecessary harm to the environment. Instead of assuming the best, do a bit of research and opt for more environmentally driven companies.
Shop Locally and Seasonally
It is not just about the cost and effect of food production that causes an impact on the planet. It is also the impact of shipping goods and products to their destinations. If you want to do your part to reduce the impact on the planet, shopping locally and seasonally can be a positive step. If you rely on what is locally available in your area, you cut back on the need to ship products and this reduced carbon footprint can make a big difference.
Grow Your Own
If you want your produce to be even closer to home, consider starting a garden and growing your own. Not only does farming at home cause significantly less environmental impact, but it also is available at your fingertips. While this limits your produce to what is viable in the season, you can also introduce indoor measures like hydroponic planters. These can open up a whole new world of farm-fresh produce without the same level of environmental damage.
Eat More Vegetables and Less Meat
Plant-based products are far more environmentally friendly in comparison to their animal-based counterparts. To help you live a greener life, eat more vegetables and less meat. Whether you incorporate a vegetarian diet or just one meal per week, this can be a useful step toward more sustainable living. You may also be surprised at the variety of delectable dishes and numerous health benefits that can come from making this change.
Reduce Your Portion Sizes
Reducing your portion sizes is another change that can make a big difference. Many adults have become accustomed to larger sizes due to increased portion sizes offered at restaurants, a lack of knowledge has contributed to this or countless other influences. This has ratcheted up the amount of waste and has put stress on the food production industry. If you want to live a healthier and greener life, consider cutting back on your portion sizes.
Eat Mindfully
If you find that you often feel overly full or sluggish after a meal, you may want to incorporate mindful eating practices. Many adults end up zoning out while eating, and this can lead to overeating, increased portion sizes, and unhealthy practices. Not to mention that this can also lead to a higher impact on the planet. You can make the change you want to see in your health and the planet. Just consider paying more attention to the process and eating more mindfully.
When it comes to living a sustainability-focused lifestyle, this requires a bit of care, planning, and a conscious effort. While this can feel complex, it will be well worth it when you can be assured that you are doing your part to promote a healthier planet and a better life.
Author: Finnegan Pierson
