2/2/14

There are certified organic versions of almost all food products on the market today, and that includes brands found at your local liquor and wine shop. But unlike the health benefits of choosing organic wines (there are fewer sulfites in organic wine), there are no real health benefits in choosing organic spirits like tequila or vodka. When hard liquor is distilled, any trace pesticides or chemicals are removed. Plus, any health professional will remind you that drinking hard liquor -- organic or conventional -- should be done in moderation, anyway.

2/1/14

Many of us are in the habit of using reusable bags when we go grocery shopping. One way to help us remember to use them is to leave them in the trunk of the car. But as useful as that is in reminding us, it can actually hurt our health in the long run. The environment of a trunk can be the perfect breeding ground for bacteria to grow in your bags. Use them to hold fresh fruits, vegetables, meat and other food products, and you risk cross-contaminating your groceries. Instead, keep your bags in a cool, dry environment inside your home, and wash and dry them frequently to keep them clean and sterile.

1/31/14

Many community parks are implementing environmental improvements like recycling bins to make it easier for guests to be green. But if you’re visiting a park during a non-peak day or during an off-peak part of the season, don’t use the recycling bins or trash cans at all. Since these cans will be emptied less frequently, wild animals can get into the recyclables to root around for food. Many get their heads stuck in glass or plastic jars with no way to escape. So instead of recycling or throwing trash away, take it home with you and sort it there.