Would you like to "Go Green" without turning your life upside down? You can make environmentally friendly choices that have a big impact. In fact, you can improve the environment and your diet at the same time! Let's look at some basic modifications that can improve not only your personal health, but also the health of the planet.

The first thing you'll want to do is plan ahead. To "Go Green" you need to shop carefully. Don't get caught hungry or you'll go for the easy meal instead of the healthy meal. Check out your weekly grocery ads and make your shopping list and menu at the same time.

You can cut down on shipping costs and lessen our dependence on oil by using local, seasonal produce. At the same time, you know you're helping local farmers and the local economy. What could taste better than the freshest produce? You may have to pay a little more but the food will stay fresher longer and be healthier for your family. Vow to prepare one new vegetable for your family each week.

The shipping, production, and feeding of cattle is very expensive. One study showed that it takes 4.8 pounds of grain to produce one pound of beef. Slowly introduce your family to vegetarian meals. Try meatless meals once or twice a week and gradually add more as your family realizes how flavorful they can be. Consider adding beans or tofu for protein.

Instead of choosing vegetables that are prepackaged in individually wrapped containers, choose your produce loose from bins. Don't buy prepackaged lettuce for your salads. Buy a head of lettuce and make your own. You'll be surprised how much fresher it tastes! Try out your farming skills. If you've never grown anything before, start small. Grow basil for pesto or mint for mojitos. If you don't have a big yard, plant in pots on your patio or deck. Tomatoes and peppers are just two vegetables that grow easily in pots.

Don't contribute to the bottled water craze just because it's convenient! Use a neoprene bottle and refill it at home. If you don't like the taste of your tap water, purchase a filter. 70 million plastic bottles are thrown away in this country each and every day. Sure, some are recycled, but not nearly enough. Just think of the money that can be saved if water isn't shipped from location to location!

Save the earth, your wallet, and your waistline by packing your lunch at home and carrying it with you to work. Use a reusable bag or lunch box. Don't use plastic cutlery. Change out your silver when you get home each night. 1.8 million tons of takeout containers and utensils end up in landfills so don't be a part of that.

You can "Go Green" with little effort. It doesn't have to be complicated. Follow these basic guidelines and make environmentally friendly choices. Save your diet and help create a healthier future for the planet.