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.
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 
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.