Celebrate Earth Day

By: Jacqueline Gomes, MBA, RDN

April 22^nd is Earth Day, and what better way to show appreciation for our planet then by adopting eco-friendly food habits. Chances are you might even improve your own health while doing so.

Believe it or not, the way we handle, use and choose our foods can play a major role in conserving energy and preserving the environment. Here are three ways you can implement change for a better Earth and a better you.

Buy local, organic, and seasonal produce. By choosing produce wisely, you support local agricultural business, reduce harm to the environment caused by transport, and obtain foods at their peak nutritional quality!
Reuse cups, utensils and bottles. Plastic manufacturing is a large contributor of pollution. Wash and use your plastics multiple times to reduce waste. Properly recycle when it is time to dispose of these items.
Be mindful when you eat meat. Greenhouse gases produced from animal farming are one of the greatest sources of harmful emissions into the atmosphere, even more so than car pollution! Limit your consumption to reduce your carbon footprint; your overall health is likely to improve as well.

Eat Well Tip: Introduce plant-based proteins into your diet and include fruits and vegetables at each meal for the most in health benefits, both for you and our planet.

Berry Oatmilk Chocolate Smoothie

Prep: 5 minutes

Makes: 2 Servings

Ingredients:

8 ounces Oatly Low Fat Oatmilk
1 cup Green Way Organic frozen Mixed Berries
½ banana, frozen
5 scoops Chocolate Vegan Protein powder, like Orgain® Organic protein powder
4 ice cubes

Directions:

Place all ingredients into a large blender.
Process until smooth. Pour into two glasses and enjoy!

Tip: Feel free to add in more oatmilk if thinner consistency is desired.

Nutrition Information for ½ recipe: 168 Calories; 32g Carbohydrate; 10g Protein; 2g Fat; 5g Fiber

Recipe by: Jacqueline Gomes, MBA, RDN