Fun Foods For a Fun Footprint

          M&M back again to provide tips on healthy eating for you and for the environment. We want to help you understand that there are ways you can help the environment without giving up some of your favorite foods. We know that everyone loves food and loves to eat, but did you know that certain foods cause your body to release more nitrogen?

            For example, consuming a lot of protein on a daily basis is not something that we would suggest doing. Protein plays a large role when it comes to nitrogen. A heavy protein diet creates more nitrogen emissions because protein itself is largely composed of nitrogen. Red meat is actually one of the worst foods you can eat for the environment. But before you drop your hamburger and freak out, take a deep breath and know that you don't have to give up your Big Mac completely. If you reduce your consumption of meat by eating more veggies and fruits with smaller portions of meat, then you can still eat all of the foods you love without over doing it. For those of you who are worried about not getting enough protein in your diet, many other foods such as nuts and beans are a great source of protein. Some livestock is more affected by nitrogen fertilizers than others. The next time you go to the supermarket, pay close attention to the label of the meat that you buy! 

          Another way that you can minimize your nitrogen output while managing your diet is to make sure you waste less food. Most people's eyes are bigger than their stomachs, but biting of more than you can chew can be hazardous for the environment. When we waste food, we not only waste valuable sources of energy and nutrients, but we also create a higher demand for food production. The more food is wasted, the more food we need. If we all reduced the amount of food we threw away and joined the clean plate club, then our nitrogen emissions would substantially diminish. So next time, instead of grabbing that extra side of fries or that extra piece of pie, just start off with a smaller portion, finish that, and get more food if you need it. We promise, food will still be there if you're still hungry!