It’s almost Earth Day. And while we all know there is plenty wrong on this Earth of ours, I prefer to focus on the sustainable changes I can make that will create positive results. By “sustainable changes,” I mean actions I can incorporate into my routine for the long term, as I don’t see much point in doing something if I’m not going to make a habit of it. (My once-a-year hot-fudge-sundae birthday splurge is an exception. But that’s a story for another day!)
For instance: The one thing I know for sure about the Earth? Pesticides and toxic chemicals are not her friend. A 2013 study shows that Round-Up, a common pesticide used on food crops, has been linked to a range of health problems and diseases that includes Parkinson’s, infertility, and cancers. It’s clear: The fewer chemicals we use to grow our food, the better for the Earth and for our bodies.
So what one habit can we form that will help both our planet and our bodies thrive? Buy organic whenever possible! Budget stretched too thin? Then I recommend choosing organic animal products because meat, dairy, and eggs tend to concentrate toxins more than plant-based foods. By choosing organic animal products, we get the protein and nutrients we need without ingesting toxic pesticides that weigh down our detox pathways.
And, at the same time, we support the health of our home, Planet Earth.