When we talk about healthy eating, the term “organic” often comes up in conversation. There can be some confusion about what this term actually means and if there are ways to include organic foods in your meal plan without exhausting your food budget.
First of all, what is “organic”?
Earth Day is coming up this Saturday, April 22. You may be asking, what exactly does Earth Day have to do with food and nutrition? Well, it takes precious resources to produce food. Helping to reduce the amount of wasted food is one way we can all do our part to build a sustainable food system. Reducing food waste means less food would find its way into landfills, where it would have been contributing to greenhouse gas emissions.
Here are three things you can do to minimize food waste:
Need a pick-me-up in the afternoon? Do you find yourself trying to power through tasks at work or energize yourself for afterschool activities with the kids? A recent nationwide study showed that most people have their afternoon slump at 2:58pm. This crash can lead to feeling drowsy, less productive, and worn out.
Celebrations, such as Easter, bring time with friends, family, and of course good food! While what we eat shouldn’t cause us to feel guilty, many times heavier holiday foods can make us feel like giving up our health and nutrition goals. Spring is the perfect to time to renew those new years resolutions and get back on track.
Get into the swing of spring with these guilt-free tips for healthy and festive celebrations:
1. Think Lean Protein
Today is Whole Grains Sampling Day! Whole grains are loaded with vitamins, minerals, and fiber to help keep you fuller longer and promote a healthy digestive tract. While most of us think of whole grain bread, whole wheat pasta, or brown rice as whole grain options, quinoa is gaining popularity in Americans’ diets for its versatility and health benefits.
What is Quinoa?
Sometimes, a giant leap towards a healthier, happier life is necessary. Other times, small shifts can get you to the same place with a lower risk of failure.
This Friday, millions of Americans will celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with parades, special foods, and by wearing green of course! Serve up a fun and festive spread by going green with your food as well.
We’ve all heard that a balanced diet is key to a healthy eating pattern, but what does “balance” really mean? This month is National Nutrition Month, which is the perfect time to focus on adding more variety to your lifestyle. Following the MyPlate guidelines is a great place to start. MyPlate gives us an example of what a balanced meal might look like based on a 9 inch plate. Each food group provides different essential nutrients that perform different roles in the body.