Do you want to eat healthily but find it difficult 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 more environmentally friendly, and we’ve put together a list of five of the easiest.
By following these tips, you’ll be eating healthier and doing your part to help save the planet!
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 that’s shipped from far away.
If at All Possible, Eat Foods Raw
Eating raw foods is one of the most environmentally friendly ways to eat. Not only does it reduce the amount of energy and resources that are used in the production of food, but it also reduces the amount of waste that’s 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 that are essential for a healthy body.
Though it may not be convenient at first, eating raw foods is definitely worth the effort! It’s one of the simplest and most efficient ways you can reduce your environmental impact while improving your 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 that are already in season, then you should try to eat them as soon as possible.
This will help reduce the amount of time and energy that needs to be put into farming and transporting them, which in turn reduces the environmental impact of your food.
Next, make sure that you’re not wasting food. This can be a tough habit to break, but if you take a few simple steps, it will become easier. 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 on in salads or as toppings for sandwiches. And 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
It’s important to eat foods that are in season because these items are typically lower in calories and have more nutrients. This will help you stay healthy and fit without needing to count calories or obsess 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” for each month.
- Look for fruits and vegetables that are 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 that’s bad for your health. Consuming a lot of meat is also linked to numerous health problems, including heart disease, cancer, and obesity.
Instead of consuming meat on a regular basis, try substituting it with other sources of protein, like tofu or plant-based meats. These alternatives are not only healthier, but they’re 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 important to consider where your food comes from. By supporting restaurants that purchase their products from locally-owned markets, you’re doing your part in helping to protect the environment.
This is because local markets are typically more sustainable and eco-friendly than large corporate stores. They’re also more likely to use quality ingredients, which will make 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 and most sustainable and environment-friendly ways to eat – and it’s also incredibly fun!
There are many different types of vegetables that can be grown in a garden, and each has its own 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, so they’re 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 get started with gardening, all you need is some soil, seeds, water, sunlight (or artificial light if you’re using plants that require it), and a little bit of patience. There’s no experience necessary – just 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 a number of easy ways to eat environmentally friendly 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 fertilizer and soil, which can help improve the quality of land 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 cuts down on 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. Simply reheat the leftovers in the oven or microwave, and you’re good to go!