How would our health be different if we used the environment to guide our lifestyle decisions? And when I say environment, I mean that literally. If we paid attention to how the Earth reacted to our decisions, what might be different?
Although this isn’t a new idea, I was reminded of this notion at the 2009 Lifestyles of Health and Sustainability conference, or LOHAS. Ray Anderson, founder of InterfaceFLOR, discussed changes in his carpet design and manufacturing that has resulted in a 71 percent reduction of greenhouse gases. By utilizing “bio-philia,” his team has moved forward with innovations that have changed the way they do business for the good of the environment and their bottom line.
His idea was to look at nature and follow its lead. Work with the concepts that already exist instead of manufacturing solutions that go against the grain. It just makes sense. How would that translate to our health? I see quite a few ways, and I’m presenting one below.
Cows eat grass. At least that’s what their bodies are made to do. But cows that produce most beef in the supermarket are fed grain. Why? Because it’s cheaper, it fattens them up faster and it’s easier to provide.
Interestingly, by putting cows back out in the pasture and letting them do what they do naturally, we jumpstart the amazing cycle that allows flora and fauna to support each other in a symbiotic relationship. Cows eat grass. They put manure back into the field to facilitate grass growth. Cows are healthy. Grass grows.
The health benefits are notable as well. Research has shown that meat and eggs from animals that are allowed to move about and exercise normally have increased levels of key vitamins and omega 3 fatty acids. And by eliminating hormones and bacteria, we are not contributing to the risks of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
Certainly, this issue is more complex, but I think we need to ask questions about where our food comes from and how it was cared for before it reached our plate.
After all, we are what we eat.
photo by: kevinzim
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DISCLAIMER ALERT: The ideas expressed in this post came out of my own head, were researched by my own eyes and were expressed by my own hands. They are not intended to serve as medical advice in any way, shape or form. And they do not reflect the views of Humana Inc. or any of its subsidiaries. I take full responsibility if you think this post is awesome or not awesome.
