Monday, July 22, 2019

The Lowdown On If You Really Should Eat Organic


You likely are no stranger to the benefits of organic foods over conventionally grown foods -- organic foods aren't allowed to be cultivated with nasty pesticides, synthetic growth hormones, and GMOs. But, perhaps the price tags of organic items make you wonder if it's possible to fill your cart with only organic items. 

There are many benefits of eating more organic food, like lowering your exposure to hormone-disrupting toxins. The costs of healthcare are more astronomical now than ever, so it makes great sense to take better care of yourself through nourishing foods that don't have harmful agents in them. 

Going organic can have a bit of a higher price tag, but it is worth it in the long run. If going all organic isn't an option, you can still take small steps to get safer food on your table.   

Here are a few tips to help you on your next grocery run:  

Always give your kids organic 
Because kids are still in a crucial period of growing, if you have to make sacrifices in your budget for organics, then you could just buy organic for your children to start with. Those pesticides and growth hormones can affect their growing bodies. You can start by picking up long-lasting produce that won't go bad quickly, so you aren't throwing money down the drain. 

Go organic on meat and dairy items 
Conventionally-raised livestock is given synthetic growth hormones, and they're fed grains that contain GMOs. If that's not upsetting enough, these animals are often kept in inhumane conditions that you'd be appalled to see.  If you do choose to eat meat, choose organic meats from farms that have an excellent reputation.   

Even fruits and vegetables 
Want to know something really alarming? Even fruits that have peels that you don't eat can absorb the pesticides they're sprayed with. So when you thought it was fine to choose a banana that wasn't organic, think again. It's even more critical when it comes to fruits and vegetables where you do eat the skin. Check out the EWG's yearly Clean 15 / Dirty Dozen list to see what items you should definitely be purchasing organic, and which items have the lowest amount of pesticides where you can skip the organic label.  

Avoid GMOs at all costs 
GMO's cause a host of problems and should be avoided. Just a few years ago, GMO's weren't as widely understood as they are today. Because of this awakening, it's quite simple to find GMO-free products, primarily because they're clearly labeled. So lucky for you, it's not difficult to make sure you are getting GMO-free items before you head to the check-out aisle!  

Switch your coffee 
Love coffee? Make the switch to organic. Regular coffee is chemically-treated, and since it penetrates into the beans, you're brewing up a pesticide-laden beverage for yourself that can take a toll on your health over time.  Since coffee is typically consumed daily by coffee drinkers, it's worth the extra money to invest in organic coffee. 

So yes, going organic everywhere is really best for your benefit, but especially important for your kids. And if money is a factor, consider shopping for produce at your local farmer's market where you can be sure you're getting organically-grown produce which has the added benefit of being local, too. You can also join a co-op where everyone pitches in for fresh organic produce from local farms. There are options for your better health organically that don't have to cost a fortune, so check them out and find what works best for you and your family. 

Monday, July 1, 2019

My Favorite Bbq Recipes For Your Next Summer Shindig




Dining outside on a warm summer night is one of my favorite parts of the season -- from picnics at the park to big backyard barbecue gatherings, many memories are made as we gather around a table to enjoy a meal alfresco.   

Unfortunately, much of what we put out on the grill isn't so good for us.  If you're looking to host an outdoor barbecue with healthier options than the typical hot dogs, hamburgers, and ribs -- take a look below for some tasty yet healthy suggestions. 

Marinated grilled chicken or tofu  
Undeniably, grilled chicken/tofu is a healthy choice.  All you need is a great marinade, and you're all set. With so many different marinades to choose from and various herbs to combine for different flavors, you won't get bored with this option. 

Grilled veggie sandwiches 
Even if you regularly fill your plate with veggies, nothing stands out better than the grilled variety. Grab Portobello mushrooms, zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers and roast them over the open flame. A little misting of olive oil will keep them from sticking without making them soggy. Then, top them on whole grain wrap or bun for a satisfying meal. 

Turkey or Veggie Burgers  
Instead of ground beef, make your burgers with ground turkey.  They taste much lighter and won't leave you dragging afterward.  Or you can opt for a veggie burger if you want a meat-free option.  Homemade black bean burgers are a big hit in my house!  

Fajita kabobs 
Take your love of fajitas outdoors by skewering marinated peppers and onions.  If you're a meat eater, add some grilled chicken to your skewers.  Add a little fajitas seasoning, and you'll have a feisty barbecue dish that brings all the flavor while being kind to your health. 

Grilled watermelon 
Watermelon is a summer barbecue staple. And while it's already good for you, tossing slices of it onto your grill is a game-changer for the palate. No one will need a sugary dessert with a treat this good. 

Grilled fish 
Fresh fish on the grill evokes images of an island vacation. No matter where you live, you can make your own version of paradise by taking fish, wrapping it with veggies like asparagus in foil packets, and throwing it atop the flames. The best part is you can use any fish you like, though the fresher, the better. Try salmon, mahi-mahi, tilapia, or tuna.  

Cauliflower steaks on the grill 
Cauliflower…is there anything it can't do? When sliced into thick steaks, you can marinate it and grill it. Like Portobello mushrooms, it has a very meaty quality while being 100% plant-based and perfect for any meatless guests. 

Shrimp Skewers 
And finally, I'd love to remind you that shrimp on the barbie not only tastes fantastic but is also a healthy barbecue dish for your summer shindigs. Marinate them, skewer them, put them on the grill, and enjoy! 

What's your favorite backyard bbq dish?  Hit reply and let me know, I'm always excited to get some new ideas.