Celebrate Earth Day
Celebrate Earth Day
By: Jacqueline Gomes, MBA, RDN
April 22nd 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.
Strawberry Protein Smoothie
Prep: 5 minutes
Makes: 2 Servings
Ingredients:
- 1 Scoop Organic Plant Based protein powder
- 1 cup sliced strawberries
- ¾ cup Silk Almond Milk, unsweetened
- 1 Tbsp chia seeds
- ½ Tbsp Almond butter
- ½ banana, frozen
- 4 ice cubes
- Sliced fresh strawberries for topping if desired.
Directions:
- Place all ingredients into a large blender.
- Process until smooth. Pour into a tall glass and enjoy!
Tip: Feel free to add in more almond milk if thinner consistency is desired.
Nutrition Information:
350 Calories; 17g Protein; 51g Carbohydrate; 12g Fat; 283mg Sodium; 14g Fiber
Recipe by: Jacqueline Gomes, MBA, RDN