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Easy ways to green your diet
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Local Fruit Stand Photo By: Anitra Pickett
Eating healthy and eating green are the same. Your body will thank you for trying to take a few simple steps (and a few easy changes to your shopping habits) in an effort to green your diet. The two overriding rules to follow are: buy local and buy organic. Don’t despair if you find it difficult to always do both – one is still better than neither.
Why local?
Buying local, especially in Hawaii, will not only help to support local businesses and farming but will also significantly cut down on greenhouse gases and oil consumption for shipping. As we all know but sometimes don’t think about the consequences of, most of our islands food supply is shipped from long distances. Processes to preserve the food for the journey can be less than healthy and even much less green.
Why organic?
In general, it is simply healthier because there aren’t as many toxins (pesticides, antibiotics, etc.) used in the food and to grow the food. It is usually produced with more care and has less chance of being from GMO agriculture.
How?
Several large grocery chains on the island are providing a variety of organic and local purchasing options. Organic and local items are just about always labeled, and can be on separate shelves, or mixed in with their non-organic/non-local alternatives. Sometimes there is a premium price, but one that may be worth paying. Just think, increasing the demand for these products will eventually decrease prices.
There are also numerous specialty stores on the islands that pride themselves in screening their suppliers and providing mostly local and/or organic options. The Organic Food Stores Locator will help get you started. It is easier than you think to be a little healthier by greening your diet.
For more info:
- Check out CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) programs in Hawaii that you can join!
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