There are 8 billion people on this planet, and whether we realize it or not, we all take a toll on Mother Earth. When the health of our ecosystems and climate is at risk, it puts our own health at risk.

This Earth Day, let’s remember that any positive action, no matter how small, can make a difference. Better yet, if everyone made just one healthy change to live more sustainably, imagine the impact it could have. With that in mind, here are some tips to improve your well-being, while helping the planet.

Balance Your Meat Consumption

Mass farming of livestock like cattle or pigs requires lots of land, water, and energy consumption. While eating enough protein is important, health experts recommend limiting total intake to 10-35% of daily calories. To help lessen the environmental impacts, try incorporating more protein-rich alternatives into your diet like beans, nuts, eggs, tofu, or fish. 

To ensure all your nutritional needs are being met, consult with your health care provider.

Eat Local

By eating local you have a better understanding of where your food comes from. Think about joining a community garden in your neighborhood. It’s a great way to get healthy vegetables required for a balanced diet. Most produce travels about 1,500 miles to get from the farm to your market, which creates a huge carbon footprint. Commercial farms also use a lot of chemicals when growing crops. Neither will be an issue if you’re eating healthy produce from just up the block. If that’s not an option, consider exploring local farmers markets.

Grow Your Own Food

If you have space, consider starting a home garden. It’s a great way for you and your family to stay active outside together. The fruits or vegetables you produce provide essential, healthy nutrients. Indoor house plants, too, can offer surprising health benefits while pulling carbon dioxide from the air. Aloe vera plants, for example, contain antioxidant and antibacterial properties, which can help treat cuts and scratches.

Walk When You Can

For every mile you drive, a pound and a half of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gasses is added to the atmosphere. Taking short trips by foot, or bike, will have an immediate effect on the environment and your health. Walking at normal speed for an hour can burn as much as 300 calories; while cycling at an easy pace of six miles per hour can help you burn around 240 calories.

Stay Hydrated, the Right Way

Your body is about 60% water, so it’s no wonder that staying hydrated is essential for your overall health. When you do go for a sip, keep the environment in mind. Disposable plastic bottles are terrible for nature and wildlife, plus they’re a huge waste of money. Investing in reusable, stainless-steel bottles will prevent more plastic from ending up in our rivers, oceans, or landfills. An insulated thermos is also better for hot beverages than disposable coffee cups.

Healthy Living with AltaMed

For over 55 years, AltaMed has helped Southern California grow healthy. With services for infants, seniors, and everyone in between, you’ll find exactly what you need under one roof and close to home. Ready to get started? Explore care options online or by calling (888) 499-9303.