"Eat well grown food from healthy soil."
Just as it matters how the animal products you eat were raised, it matters how the produce you eat was raised, as well. Healthier soil means healthier, more nutrient dense plants. Soils that are rich in organic matter produce foods with higher levels of antioxidants, flavonoids, vitamins and minerals. Does this mean that we should always buy organic veggies and fruit? Not necessarily... there are many farmers who aren't certified organic for one reason or another, but who still grow high quality produce. Keep in mind, also, that the longer your vegetables take to get to you from where they are grown, the more nutrients they lose along the way. So with that in mind, organic and local are the best options, but there is a lot of fresh, locally grown produce in this area that may not be certified organic, but are consciously raised by farmers right here in our community. Instead of loading up at the grocery store, check out the farmer's market. Fiesta Nutrition Center also has a program where you can order a variety box of organic produce each week that is ready for pick up every Thursday. This is my favorite option! You can call or run by Fiesta Nutrition Center to find out what's going to be in the next shipment and place an order.
All the tips given for the 28 Days of Real Food Challenge were compiled from "Food Rules", by Michael Pollan.