This week, we are questioning the rationale behind more and more Americans moving to an organic, vegetarian and vegan diet.
Should I buy local when buying organic?
There are a whole lot of people behind the "buy local" movement for a whole lot of reasons. "Support your local farmers." "Support your community." "Drastically lower the environmental costs of food transportation."
But, they're missing the most important motivation of all. My wholly narcissistic self interest. The fact that buying local organic simply makes more sense. The freshness is incomparable. Fruits and vegetables picked that day, just 15 miles from your home. Versus fruits and vegetables picked a month earlier in Oregon, and losing 50-80% of their nutrients while being transported to your grocer.
If you want an orange in Chicago in January, organic is the best you can do. If you can even partially adjust your diet to the season, you'll be getting the freshest most nutrient-filled options buying near you.
January 11, 2012
The Hedonist’s Guide to Healthy Living: Part 3
This week, we are questioning the rationale behind more and more Americans moving to an organic, vegetarian and vegan diet.
Are all proteins created equal?
Cow milk is the world's most perfect food....for a baby cow.
And you can get definitely get protein from a beef patty.
But, eating a McDonalds hamburger for the protein is like eating Skittles for the fruit juice. There are much healthier ways to get these vital nutrients.
While blaming animal protein for our host of health problems is still controversial, it does effectively explain the "French paradox". How a culture which indulges heavily in saturated animal fats like butter and cream has such low rates of heart disease. Because these particular animal products are actually quite low in animal protein.
Professional athletes are going vegan. Bodybuilders are going vegan. To their health benefit. No downside.
So, at the very least, we should start pointing that way, right? Quinoa and soba noodles as rice/pasta alternatives. Peanut butter. Avocados. Peas. Coconut. It's easier than you think.