Healthy Earth, Healthy Body

April 22nd, 2017

Earth day is a time we acknowledge the state of our environment and what we can do to improve it, but it should also be a time that we think about our own health and well being.  These are mutually concepts as pollution in our environment has a direct impact on our health.  Here are some ways I recommend to mark this day.

1. Plant herbs.  This is so simple, buy some pots, soil and seeds.  I like planting basil or cilantro.  Any windowsill provides adequate sunlight.  By growing your own herbs without pesticides and fertilizer, you are helping the environment.  Fresh herbs are also great additions to your diet as they contain many nutrients and add a amazing flavors to your food.  If you have high blood pressure, herbs can be a replacement for excess salt.
2. Buy sustainable and locally grown produce.  Think this is expensive?  They are actually usually just as expensive, but often tastier since they do not need to be shipped from other countries and are picked from the fields when they are ripe.  Know what fruits and vegetables are in season.  Out of season fruits are almost always grown abroad.
3. Compost your waste.  Find out where you can drop off your coffee grounds, fruit peels, and other organic matter.  A simple Google search can help you.  Better yet, if you have the space, create a compost pile in your yard which will turn into free fertilizer for you garden!
4. Take mass transit or ride a bike.  Mass transit is often less expensive and has a smaller carbon footprint than driving a car.  As an added health benefit, you often will have to climb stairs and take more steps walking to the station.  You burn more calories!  It’s a win-win situation for you and the earth.
5. Avoid packaged or processed foods.  A box of cookies or a microwave dinner require a lot of plastic and paper which lead to destruction of the environment.  These food items also contain a lot of preservatives, processed sugars and chemicals that can be toxic to your body.  Make these items yourself or go to a local small business which makes food fresh and without carcinogens.  Trust me, a freshly baked cookie always tastes better than anything that comes out of a box that has been sitting on the grocery store shelf for six months!
6. Avoid wasting food.  Buy only what you need and freeze any leftovers.  Food wasted is not only costly for you, but also the environment.
7. Do not discard medications down the toilet.  There have been some studies that have found trace amounts of antidepressants and antibiotics in lakes and streams.  If you have any leftover pills, bring them to your pharmacist or your doctor’s office for safe disposal.
8. Use cleaning supplies that do not contain harmful chemicals.  Vinegar, baking soda, glycerin soap and plain water are often just as effective as the harsh chemicals we often use to clean, which can often cause chemical irritation to our noses and skin.  Don’t pollute your home!