I told you in yesterday’s article about the White House and the organic garden that Michelle Obama has initiated on the White House grounds.
That’s such a Low Density Lifestyle thing to do! As I pointed out in yesterday’s article, living a Low Density Lifestyle is not just about health and wellness and healthy living for yourself, but also for the planet. The point is, when you live a Low Density Lifestyle, you feel lighter of body and mind, and therefore you treade lighter on the earth.
There was also a video in yesterday’s article that showed a history of gardening at the White House – and as the video showed, growing vegetables and fruit was a long-standing tradition at the White House, up until modern times.
Above is a diagram of the gardening plans at the White House. In the garden, there will be 55 varieties of vegetables, along with an herb garden – and all will be organic!
Here is a highlight of 10 of the vegetables being planted in the garden. They are being spotlighted because they are excellent foods.
Kale: Delivers beta carotene, along with other eye-health supportive carotenoids like lutein and zeaxanthin. Its organosulfur compounds are thought to reduce the risk of some types of cancer. Also provides a good dose of vitamin C, manganese, magnesium, iron, calcium, and fiber.
Spinach: Good source of beta carotene, magnesium, and folate. In addition, spinach offers nice amounts of vitamins C, E and K; calcium, potassium, iron, lutein, lipoic acid, and fiber. Studies show that the phytonutrients in spinach may aid in the prevention of heart disease, arthritis, and certain forms of cancer.
Broccoli: Considered a cancer risk reducer, partly due to its phytonutrient content (such as indoles and sulforaphane). An excellent source of vitamin C. Also delivers beta carotene, calcium, folate, and fiber.
Sugar Snap Peas: Provide insoluble fiber; may help lower cholesterol. Offers vitamins B1, B6, C and K, as well as iron, potassium, and lutein. New research shows promise for helping with high blood pressure and kidney disease.
Rhubarb: The stalks from rhubarb deliver vitamins C and K, fiber, potassium, and calcium. Rhubarb may benefit those with high cholesterol.
Romaine Lettuce: This salad green is packed with folate, vitamin C, and beta carotene. Other nutrients include vitamin K, manganese, chromium, and fiber.
Carrots: Good source of fiber, vitamins C and K, and the minerals potassium and manganese. Rich in antioxidants such as beta carotene, which can aid in the prevention of cardiovascular disease and cancer.
Collard Greens: Also has cancer-protective organosulfur compounds. Delivers beta carotene, vitamins B6 and C, calcium, zinc, and folate.
Swiss Chard: Provides vitamins B2, B6, C, K, and betacarotene, as well as the minerals iron, calcium, magnesium, manganese, and potassium.
Onions: Rich source of vitamin C, chromium, and quercetin. Studies indicate that onions may improve cardiovascular health and lower cancer risk.
And in the herb garden, here is a spotlight on 8 of the herbs that will be grown:
Thyme
Health Benefits: Used as a cough remedy; considered antifungal and 
antibacterial. A primary constituent, thymol, is the main active antiseptic ingredient in Listerine mouthwash.
Oregano
Health Benefits: Antimicrobial, antifungal, antiparasitic; has antioxidant effects. Traditionally used for coughs, colds, and mild fevers.
Sage
Health Benefits: Has antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties. Used traditionally for minor digestive complaints, sore throat, and headaches.
Rosemary
Health Benefits: Used traditionally as a memory aid and to help concentration. Also for joint pain, sore muscles, and minor digestive problems. Antioxidant, antifungal. Currently being studied for its anti-cancer properties.
Hyssop
Health Benefits: Extracts of the leaves are antiviral and antimicrobial. Traditionally used for coughs, colds, and bronchitis. Added to a balm for cold sores.
Dill
Health Benefits: Can aid digestion by relieving intestinal gas. Helps relieve bad breath.
Cilantro
Health Benefits: Antimicrobial. Traditionally used to treat indigestion, loss of appetite, and joint pain.
Parsley
Health Benefits: Mild diuretic. Chew on parsley for fresh breath. Supports digestion; helps relieve bloating and gas.
And so, we have the White House inspiring us to not only live a life of health and wellness and of healthy living in general, but to practice living a Low Density Lifestyle in regards to our relationship with the planet.
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