Garden Fresh Co-op

I am a novice Mississippi Master Gardner as well as Pioneer Member of My Organic Acres. Both allow me to enjoy raising produce in my back yard using organic methods as well as having Organic Products delivered direct to my front door. Additionally, I enjoy finding and reading about the healthy eating path.

The Commercial Appeal, the local Memphis, TN Paper, Wednesday, May 18, food section enlightened me about Vegan options and pointed out the differences between a vegan and a vegetarian… I now know vegans avoid animal products like meat, eggs, and dairy items. The writer pointed out that it’s the dairy that separates the vegans from the vegetarians. There was a nice article “Fire Up Grill for Salads, Starters – Even Desserts” also; where Lauren Chattman stated, “Don’t walk away: These items are ready in 10 minutes.”

A recent email provided me with information about Four Pillars of Healthy Eating offered by WHOLE FOODS, where you can also find the highest quality Natural and Organic Products if there is a store near you. Whole Foods’ links to the four pillars of healthy eating can help guide your journey and get you started on a healthy eating path.

Eat whole, unprocessed foods. We believe that food in its purest state — unadulterated by artificial additives, sweeteners, colorings, and preservatives — is the best tasting and most nutritious food available.

Eat a colorful variety of plants. No matter what type of diet you follow — including those with dairy, meat or seafood — reconfigure your plate so the majority of each meal is created from an abundance of raw and cooked vegetables, fruits, legumes and beans, nuts, seeds and whole grains.

Eat healthy fats. Get healthy fats from whole plant sources, such as nuts, seeds and avocados. These foods are rich in micronutrients as well. Work to eliminate (or minimize) extracted oils and processed fats.

Eat nutrient dense foods. Choose foods that are rich in micronutrients when compared to their total caloric content. Micronutrients include vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and phytochemicals. For guidance on this, look for Aggregate Nutrient Density Index (ANDI) scoring system in our stores.

Filed under: Organic Health & Nutrition, Organic Living |