Health Tips

Transitioning to a Healthy Diet

It does not take a lot of research and education to understand the basics of healthy eating. The primary staples of a healthy diet are whole grains, legumes, fruits and veggies, and nuts and seeds. A good model to follow when preparing a substantial meal is to be sure that the meal contains 25 percent whole grains, 25 percent high protein plant sources like tofu, beans, etc, 25 percent veggies and healthy fats like avocado, olive oil, nuts and seeds, and 25 percent fresh salad.

FAQs: Raising Vegetarian Teens

The teenage years can be difficult times for vegetarians or aspiring vegetarians. Peers, teachers and parents who are unknowledgeable about vegetarianism may question the teens’ dietary choices.

The Skinny on Healthy Fats

Many people are concerned about their intake of saturated fats from vegetarian foods such as nuts and seeds, coconuts, and avocados. While it is true that a high intake of saturated fat is linked to increased risk of heart disease and arteriosclerosis, it is important to understand that there is a difference between saturated fats from animal sources versus saturated fats from vegetable sources.

Simple, Tasty & Nutritious

Most people would love to have the time to indulge in nutritious culinary fantasies, making delicious meals everyday for themselves or their families. Unfortunately, most would agree that labor-intensive meals are not practical for their hectic lives. But with quick and easy healthy meal solutions, there is no reason why a person can not have their veggies and eat them too. Below are some suggestions for simple and nutritious snacks and meals that will please the whole family.

Saving the Reefs

Coral reefs are known as the “Rain forests of the Ocean.” Countless varieties of marine life depend on them for their survival. And as they are dwindling away, it is important that every person respect the reefs and do what they can to help.

Saving Our Mother

Mother Earth has taken a beating when it comes to her health and appearance. The destruction of woodlands, the pollution of beaches and oceans, and the depletion of the ozone layer are making it increasingly difficult for her. People often take for granted the abundance of resources that are reaped from the earth and forget that it is everyone’s responsibility to take care of the world in which we live. Though many may feel powerless to halt the destruction of the earth, there are small contributions that can help maintain the health of the planet.

Reducing Waste For Our Mother

It is no surprise that the United States is the leading consumer society in the world. Most Americans have become accustomed to living by the motto, “Out with the old, and in with the new.” But wastefulness definitely takes a toll on the health of the earth, as well as the health of its inhabitants. So, we invite you to celebrate Earth Day with Down to Earth by taking action to reduce waste, reduce water and energy consumption, and help protect our planet. Curbing Waste: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

Reading Food Labels

If you have food allergies or are serious about maintaining a vegetarian diet, it is important to know how to read food labels. The new food labeling laws will make this much easier as the 8 major food allergens will now be listed on packages. However, until all labels have made this transition, it will still be necessary to carefully read ingredients. Research your particular allergy and learn the chemical names by which it may appear on a label. For example, “sodium caseinate” is a milk derivative, and “hydrolyzed vegetable protein” is a form of MSG.

Out With the Toxic and in With the Healthy

Simple changes in your household cleaning products can reduce the potential for toxic exposure in your home. There are easy steps that you can take to identify and eliminate these hazardous yet common household chemicals, and replace them with safer, healthier choices.

Take a “household toxins” tour and pay attention to the following:

Organic Babies & Kids

The last fifty years have seen an alarming increase in the variety of synthetic chemicals in our everyday environments. These chemicals have inundated our food supply, personal care products, clothing, housewares, as well as the foods and products that we give to our children. It is the effect of these chemicals on babies and children that is most pertinent to address.