Health Watch is a Public Service of the Office of News and Publications  and is intended to provide general information only and should not replace the advice of a medical professional. You should contact your physician if you have questions about any of these topics.

This week on Health Watch, we’re talking about how going green with your diet is good for the planet and good for your body. Nutrition experts at UT Southwestern Medical Center say one green step you can take is to reduce the number of processed and packaged foods you buy.

The further food is from its natural state, the more resources are required to produce it and the greater its environmental impact. Packaging also uses resources and creates waste. Meanwhile, this food tends to be loaded with preservatives and chemicals and is usually high in sodium, fats and refined flours, which isn’t good for your body. When you go shopping, focus on the foods at the perimeter of the store — dairy, fresh meats and seafood and produce. The middle of the store is usually full of packaged and processed foods. You’ll save money, get better nutrition and have a smaller environmental impact by eating real food close to its natural state.

Visit http://www.utsouthwestern.org/nutrition to learn more about UT Southwestern’s clinical services in nutrition.

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