Okay okay okay. We've heard plenty about carnivore, herbivores. When referring to humans these terms are scientifically incorrect, though most of us know that. Humans, of course, are omnivores. We eat plants and animals. There are a few true herbivores in the world of humans, though they prefer to call them selves Vegan, which is significant because for humans it is a choice to be herbivore, not a biological requirement. However, it is a biological requirement that humans are NOT carnivores. No human can live on flesh and other animal products. We NEED plants (we do not need meat).

But that is actually not what this article is about. This article is about Locavores, the newest craze in low-carb diets. But it is not what you think. I am not referring to low carbohydrate; rather I am referring to low CARBON. And to make it even more confusing, it is not the carbon in the food, that doesn't really change much; a potato is a potato is a potato. Or is it?

Low carbon diets are diets that use less fossil fuel in transportation and processing, and are therefore low producers of carbon dioxide compared to their well-traveled friends. If you live in Texas, a potato from Texas will have been responsible for much less carbon dioxide in the atmosphere than a potato from the famous state of Idaho.

Those searching to consume a low-carb diet will definitely be at an advantage if living in a temperate climate with a long growing season and access to farmer's market year round. Still, when winter comes around and if you are living in the mid-west and the farm stands are closing up shop, think greens from California, instead of greens from Australia.

It can be a challenge to commit to locally grown foods in some parts of the country. Still, there are many foods that last through the winter, like grains and dried, canned, and frozen perishables, including meat. Locavores overcome the challenge of the seasons by opening their minds to the many options that abound, giving way to a great adventure in food.

While local farms are often resting their soil during the winter, wild foods continue to grow. There is an amazing array of wild foods available wherever you live. Wild grains, leafy plants like dandelion greens grow everywhere nearly year-round, and fruits, nuts, and berries abound in many different seasons. Start to learn what it means to really live in your home. What grows around you, what is the natural landscape providing you? Even herbs grow wild, and many are easy to identify and add a real zing to your cooking compared to the dried herbs found at the grocery store, which are months old before they even get to the shelf.

In the United States, food travels an average of 1500 to 2000 miles before it reaches our plate. That is because food is not just shipped across the country or around the world before we eat, but it even sometimes shipped once for processing and a second time for consumption.

Farmer's markets, when available, sell produce that was brought from a few hours drive at most, and is usually picked on the same day! Consider that as a factor when compared to lettuce that has probably been out of the soil for weeks before you even pick it up at the store. You'll find farmer's market produce last longer because of this, too. To really develop a relationship with the seasons and your 'hood, consider joining a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) program. Boxes of fresh goodies are delivered weekly or bi-weekly to a location near you.

"What we choose to eat determines to a large extent how the world is used."

Everyday choices, over a lifetime, have a profound effect on our relationship with the environment. Open your eyes to the world around and see what bounty is provided in your backyard and neighborhood. Choosing the life of a Locavore will also allow you to celebrate a low-carb diet as you dine on your fresh delights!