Health Hotline Magazine | April 2026
Science-backed educational articles from some of the top voices in health and nutrition Exceptional product deals making prices even lower than Natural Grocers’ Always Affordable prices
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OFFERS VALID MARCH 27 TO APRIL 25, 2026
APRIL 2026 VOL. 105
MARCH 28 - APRIL 4 UP TO 52% OFF *
49 % OFF UP TO EARTH DAY DEALS APRIL –24 S PAGES 18–19
SATURDAY, MARCH 28!
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CONTENTS EVEN MORE AFFORDABLE PRICES 4 16 RECIPE: N.Y. STRIP LOIN ROAST
Ode to Earth Month LETTE F OM THE Iselys
GOLDEN EASTER EGG HUNT 22 EASTER DEALS! 18
Will you be bringing a basket of early strawberries? Bright red and juicy sweet, the kind we can smell as you approach? Or will it be a bundle of rhubarb, sharp and tangy, and begging to be turned into pie? Perhaps you’ll be carrying a pile of spring onions and easter egg radishes, earthy, spicy, and aromatic, with rich soil still clinging to their bulbs—that will get our attention! As you share this garden bounty, will you encourage us to dig our hands into the soil, savoring its texture and inhaling its layered scents? And as the sun warms our backs and chocolate-colored clods crumble between our fingers, will you remind us that dirt beneath our fingernails is a joy that needn’t be lost to childhood? When we’ve rediscovered the delight of dirt, will you suggest we go in search of the poetry that lives among the trees? Will you warn us that it’s the kind you can only hear if you stay long enough to draw it out? For tree poetry is shy and can only be caught by an attentive audience—present and distraction-free, happy to simply sit with a tree. After we’ve marveled at the tree poets’ rhymes, will you tell us to find a spot, any spot, where water flows to rest on the banks for a while? To let its currents carry away whatever we need to release, and watch it gently drift beyond reach. Then, as we savor the last early strawberry, with dirt beneath our fingernails, the poetry of trees serenading us, and the lightness of an afternoon by the water lifting our steps, we’ll find the day is winding down. Will you ask us not to rush it, as you remind us of the healing beauty of sunsets? Finally, as we settle in for the night, will you hand us a fragrant cup of peppermint tea and whisper one last thing? That maybe—just maybe—we take care of things better when we connect with them first. Happy Earth Month, neighbors! Here’s a favorite quote we’re enjoying this April… “The Earth is what we all have in common!” –Wendell Berry Let’s take care of her together!
A NEW LOOK AT PROTEIN 24
EARTH DAY DEALS! 28
OPCS: GET TO KNOW THESE VASCULAR HEROES 37 COUNT THE LADYBUGS! 35 48 FOR LOVE OF ORGANICS: BEES AND OTHER BELOVED POLLINATORS
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Our New Eggs Rule the Roost!
$ 6 49 {N}POWER® PRICING ONLY! ALWAYS AFFORDABLE SM $ 7.99
Natural Grocers ® Regenerative Organic Certified ® Pasture-Raised Eggs
• Regenerative Organic Certified ® , Certified Organic ® , and Certified Humane ® • Raised with care on small Mennonite family farms in the U.S. that focus on creating flourishing ecosystems • From happy hens that spend their days outdoors, roaming over acres of biodiverse pasture with a minimum of 108 sq. ft. per hen
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ON OVER 500 ITEMS!
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Natural Grocers Brand ORGANIC EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL / 25.5 OZ $ 11 99
$ 9 99 EACH Natural Grocers Brand ORGANIC COFFEE 10 OZ
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Natural Grocers Brand ORGANIC CANNED BEANS 15.5 OZ (EXCLUDES GREEN BEANS)
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ALWAYS AFFORDABLE PRICE :
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OFFERS VALID MARCH 27 TO APRIL 25, 2026
GROCERY
22 % OFF
$ 12 59 20 % OFF
$ 3 99 20 % OFF
$ 6 99
EACH
EACH
Bob’s Red Mill ® ORGANIC UNBLEACHED WHITE FLOUR 80 OZ A premium, all purpose baking flour, freshly milled from hard red wheat.
Ancient Organics ® ORGANIC GHEE 9 OZ A dynamic superfood that can be used in place of any oil, fat, or butter.
Alter Eco ® ORGANIC CHOCOLATE BARS 2.65 2.82 OZ Unbelievably smooth Swiss-made chocolate that supports reforestation in South America.
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE SM $ 8.99
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 15.79
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 4.99
12 % OFF
24 % OFF
25 % OFF
20 % OFF
$ 2 89
$ 3 19 Angie’s ® SELECT POPCORN 4.4 7 OZ EACH
$ 3 99
$ 12 39 Beyond Good ® ORGANIC PURE GROUND VANILLA / 1 OZ
EACH
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 5.25 REELiE ORGANIC CRACKERS 4.25 OZ
C2O ® ORGANIC COCONUT WATER / 16.9 OZ
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 3.99
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 16.65
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 3.29
OFF 22 % UP TO
18 % OFF
$ 24 99 18 % OFF
$ 6 49
Chocxo ORGANIC MILK CHOCOLATE
ESSENTIA ® IONIZED WATER 12 PK 50.7 OZ *EXCLUDES FRISCO, CO LOCATION Premium, alkaline bottled water that is crisp and refreshing.
Frontier ® SELECT SPICES AND EXTRACTS 0.017 8 OZ Kitchen and pantry staples made with a commitment to quality.
DUBAI STYLE PISTACHIO CUPS / 3.45 OZ A creamy milk-chocolate shell filled with premium pistachio nut butter.
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 7.95
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 30.75
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 3.49- $ 34.95
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OFFERS VALID MARCH 27 TO APRIL 25, 2026
GROCERY
18 % OFF
2/ $ 7 22 % OFF
$ 3 49 26 % OFF
$ 6 69
EACH
Enjoy Life Foods™ BAKING CHOCOLATE 9 OZ Delicious, certified gluten-free chocolate, perfect for melting, baking, and more.
Chocolove ® CHOCOLATE BARS 2.9 3.2 OZ Premium Belgian-style chocolate bars, crafted with care in Boulder, Colorado.
BioBag ® RESEALABLE SANDWICH BAGS 25 CT Resealable, reusable sandwich bags that can be composted when you are done with them.
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 8.19
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 4.49
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE SM $ 4.75
11 % OFF
18 % OFF
24 % OFF
26 % OFF
$ 20 79 Clif ® ALL LUNA BARS 15 PACKS 15 PK 1.69 OZ EACH
$ 3 69
$ 3 79 Divina ® DOLMAS 7 OZ
$ 2 29
EACH
EACH
Daiya Foods™ DAIRY FREE MAC & CHEESE MIXES / 10.6 OZ
Dr. McDougall’s ® SELECT SOUP CUPS OR NOODLE CUPS / 1.3 3.4 OZ
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 2.59
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 25.55
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 4.99
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 4.99
$ 22 99 10 % OFF
$ 20 99 21 % OFF
$ 5 89 21 % OFF
EACH
Great Lakes Wellness ® BEEF GELATIN 16 OZ Tasteless, colorless, and odorless. Perfect for thickening soups and sauces.
Eternal ® ALKALINE SPRING WATER
Hu ® ORGANIC DARK CHOCOLATE BITES 2.75 OZ Dark decadent chocolate with a rich flavor, filled with creamy centers in each individual bite.
24 PK 20.2 OZ *EXCLUDES FRISCO, CO LOCATION Pure and crisp, naturally alkaline spring water with nothing added and nothing removed.
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 26.65
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 25.70
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 7.55
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OFFERS VALID MARCH 27 TO APRIL 25, 2026
GROCERY
20 % OFF
$ 4 89 31 % OFF
$ 3 99 20 % OFF
$ 5 79
EACH
EACH
Garden Of Eatin’ ® ORGANIC TORTILLA CHIPS 14 OZ Crunchy tortilla chips with an unforgettable flavor that are strong enough to conquer any dip.
If You Care ® PARCHMENT PAPER 70 SQ FT Made from unbleached, totally chlorine-free greaseproof paper.
Jovial ® ORGANIC EINKORN COOKIES 8.8 OZ Lightly sweetened cookies, crafted in small batches by Italian artisan bakers.
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE SM $ 7.29
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 7.19
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 4.99
$ 7 89 21 % OFF
$ 19 69 20 % OFF
$ 5 79 20 % OFF
Lily’s Sweets NO SUGAR ADDED SEMI SWEET BAKING CHIPS / 9 OZ
La Tourangelle ® ORGANIC EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL / 25.4 OZ
Madhava ® ORGANIC COCONUT SUGAR / 16 OZ
A versatile and fresh olive oil that adds a smooth flavor to everyday cooking.
Decadent baking chocolate that is a perfect sugar free solution for your favorite treats.
A sweet, clean, and simple sweetener with no aftertaste.
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 24.69
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 9.99
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 7.29
2/ $ 3 24 % OFF
2/ $ 6 28 % OFF
With a rich, nutty flavor, these little seeds are a perfect way to add some protein to any meal. $ 11 89 20 % OFF ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 14.95 Manitoba Harvest ® ORGANIC HEMP HEARTS 12 OZ
Mamma Chia ® ORGANIC CHIA SQUEEZE POUCHES 3.5 OZ Bring the magic of chia with you on the go, wherever life takes you.
Milton’s™ GLUTEN FREE CRACKERS 4.5 OZ
Tasty crackers that are perfect for anything from everyday snacking to charcuterie boards alike.
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 1.99
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 4.19
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OFFERS VALID MARCH 27 TO APRIL 25, 2026
GROCERY
23 % OFF
2/ $ 7 25 % OFF
$ 11 29 24 % OFF
$ 3 29
EACH
Green Polly ® 13 GALLON 100% PCR BLUE TALL KITCHEN BAGS / 20 CT Strong and durable kitchen trash bags made from 100% post-consumer recycled plastic.
Kettle & Fire ® COOKING BROTHS 32 OZ Light broths made with clean ingredients to add depth of flavor to your recipe.
Kicking Horse ® ORGANIC COFFEE 10 OZ Flavorful, energizing, Rocky Mountain roasted fair-trade coffee.
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 4.29
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE SM $ 4.69
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 14.99
11 % OFF
11 % OFF
12 % OFF
27 % OFF
$ 3 75 Minor Figures ORGANIC BARISTA OAT MILKS / 32 OZ EACH
$ 4 29
$ 3 99
$ 3 99
EACH
EACH
Natural Grocers Brand ORGANIC TOILET BOWL CLEANER / 24 OZ
Natural Grocers Brand ORGANIC SOUPS 14.1 OZ
Natural Grocers ® Brand SELECT PICKLES 24 24.3 OZ
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 5.19
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 4.49
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 4.49
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 4.89
18 % OFF
$ 3 99 24 % OFF
$ 4 49 20 % OFF
$ 1 79
EACH
EACH
EACH
Nixie ® ORGANIC ZERO SUGAR SODAS 12 OZ Classic, craveable sodas, made with zero sugar and better-for-you ingredients.
Patagonia Provisions™ ORGANIC CRACKERS 4.4 OZ Tasty crackers made with regeneratively grown wheat to build healthy soil and preserve ecosystems.
Simple Mills ® ALMOND FLOUR CRACKERS 4.25 OZ Simple, real, wholesome ingredients for a snacking experience you can feel good about.
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 2.19
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 5.29
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 5.65
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OFFERS VALID MARCH 27 TO APRIL 25, 2026
GROCERY
19 % OFF
$ 4 59 19 % OFF St. Dalfour ® FRUIT SPREADS 10 OZ
$ 7 99 21 % OFF
2/ $ 7
EACH
Humble ® Snacks ORGANIC POTATO CHIPS 5 OZ
Spectrum™ ORGANIC REFINED COCONUT OIL 14 OZ
A versatile cooking oil perfect for baked goods or shallow pan frying, without an overpowering coconut flavor.
Made with locally sourced, thin-sliced organic potatoes, sprinkled with all-natural seasonings.
Delicious and nutritious blends of premium fruits, meticulously crafted for taste and well-being.
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE SM $ 4.35
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 10.19
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 5.69
30 % OFF
28 % OFF
20 % OFF
20 % OFF
$ 4 49
$ 4 49
$ 5 19
$ 4 19
EACH
EACH
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 5.65 Natural Grocers ® Brand SKINLESS & BONELESS WILD PINK SALMON / 6 OZ
Rudi’s™ SELECT ORGANIC BREAD LOAVES / 22 OZ
Seventh Generation ® DISINFECTING MULTI SURFACE CLEANER / 26 OZ
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 5.65 Organic India ® ORGANIC TULSI TEAS 18 CT
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 7.29
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 5.99
20 % OFF
$ 22 99 14 % OFF
$ 16 89 24 % OFF
EACH
Steaz ® ORGANIC ANTIOXIDANT BREWS 12 PK 16 OZ Formulated with the antioxidant vitamin C to revitalize as you refresh.
Pamela’s Products ® GLUTEN FREE PANCAKE & BAKING MIX 64 OZ A delightful mix that lets you enjoy your favorite treats in a way that empowers your lifestyle.
Stasher ALL PRODUCTS Dishwasher and microwave-safe solutions to single use plastic products.
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ $9.99-$25.99
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 26.89
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 22.45
10 | Health Hotline ®
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OFFERS VALID MARCH 27 TO APRIL 25, 2026
GROCERY
$ 2 79 24 % OFF
$ 21 39 13 % OFF
$ 10 99 26 % OFF
EACH
EACH
Surf Sweets ® CANDIES 2.75 OZ Mindfully delicious treats made with high-quality, allergy-free ingredients.
Sweetleaf ® STEVIACLEAR SWEET DROPS 4 OZ Satisfy your sweet tooth without any of the guilt of sugar with these stevia drops.
Thunderbird ® SUPERFOOD BARS 12 PK 1.7 OZ Fuel yourself with powerful, clean nutrition, ready for whatever life throws at you.
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE SM $ 3.69
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 14.99
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 24.75
$ 5 39 16 % OFF
$ 33 99 21 % OFF
$ 4 29 28 % OFF
EACH
EACH
Tony’s Chocolonely ® CHOCOLATE BARS 6.35 OZ Made from ethically sourced cocoa so you can treat yourself and feel good about it.
Vita Coco ® FARMERS ORGANIC COCONUT WATER 12 PK 16.9 OZ Full of nutrients and electrolytes from hand-picked coconuts to power your hydration.
White Leaf Provisions ORGANIC APPLESAUCE POUCHES 4 PK 3.2 OZ Pure, delicious, and wholesome regeneratively farmed applesauce pouches.
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 6.45
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 43.09
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 5.99
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$ 11 49 17 % OFF
$ 29 99 12 % OFF
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Woodstock ® ORGANIC SMOOTH PEANUT BUTTER 35 OZ Rich and delicious peanut butter that is ready to spread for perfect sandwich making.
Yerba Madre™ ORGANIC YERBA MATE DRINKS 12 PK 15.5 OZ Energizing beverages powered by the yerba mate plant’s naturally occurring caffeine.
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 13.89
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 34.45
Natural Grocers ® | 11
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OFFERS VALID MARCH 27 TO APRIL 25, 2026
IN THE fridge
$ 3 89 35 % OFF
14 % OFF
$ 1 59
EACH
EACH
Bitchin’ Sauce™ ALMOND DIPS 7 8 OZ Deliciously indulgent almond dips that are sure to satisfy!
Bellwether Farms ® SELECT ORGANIC A2|WHOLE MILK YOGURTS / 5.3 OZ These yogurts are made from deliciously creamy full-fat milks for a full flavor.
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 5.99
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE SM $ 1.85
$ 5 19 13 % OFF
$ 5 89 10 % OFF
$ 3 49 20 % OFF
EACH
EACH
Charcutnuvo ORGANIC BREAKFAST SAUSAGES 8 OZ Carefully curated flavors made from pure and simple ingredients, and only the finest meats.
Good Culture ® ORGANIC SOUR CREAM 16 OZ This probiotic sour cream is made with no artificial anything, just simple ingredients.
GT’s Living Foods COCONUT YOGURTS 8 OZ This fermented non-dairy yogurt is a one-of-a-kind smooth experience.
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 6.59
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 4.39
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 5.99
$ 5 39 19 % OFF
$ 2 89 21 % OFF
$ 4 29 33 % OFF
EACH
EACH
EACH
Health-Ade Kombucha ® ORGANIC KOMBUCHAS 16 OZ
Lifeway ® ORGANIC KEFIRS 32 OZ These tart and tangy drinks are packed with probiotics, calcium, and more.
Immaculate Baking ® ORGANIC FLAKY BISCUITS OR CRESCENT ROLLS / 8 16 OZ Delicious scratch-made flavor in convenient, ready to-bake doughs.
Crisp and bubbly beverages, brimming with probiotics and detoxifying acids for gut health.
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 3.69
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 6.45
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 6.69
12 | Health Hotline ®
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OFFERS VALID MARCH 27 TO APRIL 25, 2026
IN THE fridge
$ 5 29 32 % OFF
10 % OFF
$ 2 69
EACH
MyFOREST™ Foods MEATLESS MYCELIUM BACON 6 OZ Meatless bacon with the perfect texture, made from oyster mushroom mycelium.
Natural Grocers ® Brand ORGANIC WELLNESS SHOTS 2 OZ
Functional and flavorful wellness blends to promote energy, digestion, immune function, and more.
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 2.99
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE SM $ 7.89
$ 4 89 10 % OFF
2/ $ 3 30 % OFF
2/ $ 6 22 % OFF
EACH
Stonyfield ® Organic ORGANIC KIDS YOGURTS 3.5 OZ Fun, squeezable yogurt packs in delicious flavors made with real fruit.
Oatly SELECT OAT MILKS 64 OZ Smooth, versatile oatmilks. A sustainably crafted 1-1 replacement for traditional dairy.
Pop & Bottle SELECT ORGANIC ALMOND MILK LATTES 11 OZ Deliciously clean lates that are dairy free, and free of refined sugar.
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 5.49
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 3.89
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 2.15
$ 4 19 19 % OFF
$ 9 39 10 % OFF
20 % OFF
$ 3 19
EACH
EACH
Thousand Hills™ 100% GRASS FED 85/15 GROUND BEEF 16 OZ This premium ground beef is packed with both flavor and nutrients.
Truly Grass-Fed™ CHEESE BLOCKS 7 OZ Made with milk from cows that graze the open green pastures of small family farms in Ireland.
Suja ® ORGANIC WELLNESS SHOTS 12 OZ Delicious juice shots made with functional ingredients to boost your health.
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 3.99
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 10.49
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 5.19
Natural Grocers ® | 13
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OFFERS VALID MARCH 27 TO APRIL 25, 2026
IN THE FREEZER
$ 10 49 13 % OFF
$ 4 99 16 % OFF
26 % OFF
$ 6 39
EACH
EACH
Alden’s ® SELECT ORGANIC ICE CREAM NOVELTIES / 14 21.9 OZ
Applegate Farms ® CHICKEN NUGGETS OR TENDERS 16 OZ
Alexia ® CRISPY POTATO PUFFS 19 OZ
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE SM $ 8.69
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 12.15
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 5.99
$ 4 99 28 % OFF
$ 6 19 27 % OFF
$ 6 59 23 % OFF
$ 6 89 27 % OFF
EACH
EACH
EACH
Mulay’s SELECT GROUND PORK SAUSAGES / 15 OZ
Cannon Fish SKIN ON WILD SOCKEYE SALMON FILLET / 5 OZ
Deep Indian Kitchen ® MOMO DUMPLINGS 7.8 OZ
Daiya™ DAIRY FREE PIZZAS 15.7 19.4 OZ
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 6.99
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 8.59
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 8.59
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 9.49
10 % OFF
$ 4 49 21 % OFF Strong Roots ® POTATO FRIES 20 OZ
24 % OFF
25 % OFF
$ 5 39
EACH $ 5 19 Sa ron Road ® FROZEN ENTREES 10 OZ
$ 4 49
EACH
Natural Grocers Brand GLUTEN FREE PIZZA DOUGH / 16 OZ
Natural Grocers ® Brand ORGANIC MUSSELS IN SHELL / 16 OZ
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 5.99
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 5.99
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 6.85
ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 5.69
14 | Health Hotline ®
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By Charity Isely
Eat Like a Regenivore! Once, in a farmer's field, a billion tiny soil organisms were finally remembered, and the farmer's focus shifted from how much a crop could yield to how future harvests depended on the soil being healed. Once, in a neighborhood grocery store, the proprietors said, no more—our standards for food must place human and environmental health over profit. Once, at the dinner table, you and I chose to understand the consequences of each forkful's production. And once it happened, it happened again and again. We all—the farmer, the grocery store proprietor, and the eater—began to act for hope because we understand that the roots of our hope are planted in evidence. Together, we are starting a movement to redirect the future. The influence of our collective actions can ensure we all have access to nourishing food, restore our topsoil, sequester greenhouse gases that imperil our planet, improve our health, and create more robust and equitable economies. And because we are acting together, it will echo in the halls of policy and power with a persistence that can no longer be ignored. We are Regenivores! Regenivore, noun: A person who eats in a way that supports a shift from degrading, stripping, and crippling to regenerating and sustaining—our planet, our health, and our economies. Regenivores know that the food on our plates and the farmers, ranchers, and grocers we support are directly connected to the biodiversity of our food web, the integrity of the soil, the health of the planet, our own health, and the health of our families and friends. 6 Reasons to be a Regenivore:
4. Approximately 80 percent of antibiotics sold in the U.S. go to livestock production, often as feed additives to increase growth and to prevent infections caused by being confined in a CAFO (concentrated animal feed operation); around 70 percent of these drugs are “medically important” for humans. Organic regenerative systems prohibit antibiotics, and one study found that grazing cattle have a more efficient immune response than cattle in a feedlot (i.e., a healthy cow doesn’t need preventative antibiotics). 5. The micronutrient content of fruits and vegetables has declined over the last 70 years, including vitamin C, calcium, and iron, while proteins in wheat, rice, and barley have decreased by 30%, 18%, and 50% respectively. Organically grown crops, by contrast, consistently demonstrate higher levels of vitamin C, iron, magnesium, and phosphorous and other important bioactive compounds, and one study found levels of health-supporting phytonutrients in pasture-raised animal products that are undetectable in their grain-fed counterparts. 6. Regenerative organic agriculture is more climate resilient. Data from the Rodale Institute’s Farming Systems Trial (FST), the longest running comparison of organic and conventional farming, found that organic yields were 40% greater than conventional in times of drought. “The health of soil, plant, animal, and man is one and indivisible.” —Sir Albert Howard
1. Regenerative organic farming “encourages continuous innovation and improvement of environmental, social, and economic measures.” It eliminates toxic synthetic inputs while promoting biological diversity and the harmony of natural cycles. Consequently, the health and welfare of all living things is inherent to its success. 2. A teaspoon of healthy soil is alive with billions of organisms that play a role in its function as the foundation of our food supply. Soil organisms convert decaying matter into plant nutrients, improve soil structure, increase water-holding capacity, and enhance carbon sequestration. Yet soils are degrading at such a rate the United Nations has said we may only have 60 harvests left. The principles of regenerative organic agriculture restore and maintain soil health. 3. Soil carbon (i.e., carbon dioxide that has been pulled from the atmosphere and locked into the soil) is significantly higher in regeneratively-managed grazing systems when compared to un-grazed land. And because of this increased carbon sequestration in regenerative grazing systems, these ranches can offset 100 percent of the emissions from the cattle, and up to as much as 85 percent of the farm’s total carbon emissions.
Natural Grocers ® | 15
For references, please visit naturalgrocers.com/issue-105
OFFERS VALID FEBRUARY 27 TO MARCH 21, 2026
A New York Strip Loin Roast comes from the short loin of the cow—the same area that gives us the popular New York Strip Steak. This cut, sometimes called the top loin, is naturally tender because the muscle is used very little; the result is a roast with a firm yet tender texture and a rich beef flavor. It’s surprisingly easy to prepare and might just be one of the most delicious roasts you’ll ever make—perfect for holiday gatherings or any special occasion. N.Y. Strip Loin Roast
INGREDIENTS • 1 (4-pound) Thousand Hills™ Lifetime Grazed New York Strip Loin Roast • 3 medium organic garlic cloves • 6-8 medium-large organic sage leaves • 1 ½ tablespoons fresh organic thyme leaves • 2 teaspoons Natural Grocers ® Brand Bulk Organic Ground Black Pepper • 2 tablespoons Natural Grocers Brand Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil • 4 teaspoons coarse sea salt
INSTRUCTIONS 1. Remove the meat from the package and pat dry with paper towels. Set on a plate and make the herb rub.
2. Add the garlic, sage, thyme, and black pepper to the bowl of a food processor and drizzle the olive oil over the top. Process until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed. Transfer the herb rub to the plated roast or a small bowl. 3. Spread the herb rub evenly on all sides of the roast. Rub it in with your fingers to ensure even coverage. Sprinkle the coarse salt liberally over all sides, pressing it into the meat with your hands. Cover the roast and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or overnight. 4. Allow 1-2 hours to bring the roast to room temperature before roasting. 5. Preheat oven to 450°F. 6. Place the meat, fat-side up, on a rack in a roasting pan and roast for 20 minutes. 7. Reduce the oven to 325°F and continue cooking until you reach desired doneness (general cook time is 15-20 minutes per pound). 8. Begin testing for doneness after meat has been in the oven for 45 minutes, including the high-heat roasting time. Insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of the meat (and test the temperature in more than one area). Rare: 120-125° F; Medium-Rare: 130-135° F; Medium: 140-145°. Remove the roast from the oven just before it reaches the desired temperature, as it will continue to cook while resting (be very careful not to overcook it—the temperature will rise an additional 5 to 8 degrees while resting). Remove the roast from the oven, tent with aluminum foil and let rest for 20-30 minutes. 9. After resting the meat, cut crosswise into 1/3-inch-thick slices. Arrange slices on a serving platter and drizzle the drippings over the meat just before serving. Serve with roasted potatoes, carrots, and parsnips.
Serves: 7–10 Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour, 30 minutes Total time: ~3 hours, 45 minutes (plus 3–8 hours marinating time)
16 | Health Hotline ®
$ 6 35 per lb
$ 49 99 per 4 lb roast
Try this recipe!
Beeler’s Uncured Bone-In Spiral Sliced Half Hams • Fully Cooked • Hickory Smoked Thousand Hills TM Boneless Strip Loin Roasts • 100% Grass-Fed Beef HOLIDAY HAMS & ROASTS ARE HERE! $ 6.50 PER PERSON FOR UNDER
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18 | Health Hotline ®
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Natural Grocers ® | 19
AFFORDABLE PRICES ON
MEAL DEAL
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$ 1 85 UNDER PER PERSON
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NATU AL G OCE S ® B AND BUL O GANIC WHOLE CASHEWS Each handful of our organic whole cashews come packed with flavor, plus good4u SM fats, minerals, and free radical scavengers.
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NATU AL G OCE S B AND BUL O GANIC MANGO ST IPS Now you can enjoy the tangy sweetness wherever you (man)go! It’s loaded with nutrients and perfect for any hiking, camping, or road-tripping adventure.
Natural Grocers ® | 21
Terms and conditions apply. See page 2 for details.
TWO GREAT EVENTS IN ONE!
Easter Fun Starts at 11:00 AM!
Saturday, March 28, 2026 11 AM - 1 PM AT ALL LOCATIONS Win Up to a PLUS
Kids Easter Egg Hunt & Crafts! First 100 kids get a FREE ** reusable bag! Fun For All Little Ones
$ 50 Gift Card at Our 3 rd Annual Golden Easter Egg Hunt! * 12 golden eggs. 12 chances to win. Will you find a golden egg?
*No purchase necessary. A purchase will not increase your chances of winning. While supplies last. Void where prohibited by law. Contest will be held in participating stores on 3/28/26 only from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. local time. 12 prizes will be awarded at each store upon finding an Easter egg, including 11 $10 gi t cards and one $50 gi t card. Limit one gi t card prize per winner. Crew and members of their household are not eligible. For ocial rules and complete details, visit www.naturalgrocers.com/sweepstakes. Sponsor: Vitamin Cottage Natural Food Markets, Inc. **Bags will be given out first come, first served. Limit one bag per customer. While supplies last, no rainchecks. Void where prohibited by law. Crew and members of their household are not eligible. See store for details and additional terms.
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OFFERS VALID MARCH 27 - APRIL 25, 2026
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Humble® Snacks Organic Potato Chips 5 OZ SALE! 2/ $ 7 10. Chocolove® Chocolate Bars 2.9-3.2 OZ SALE! 2/ $ 7 9. Mary Ruth’s® Organic Kids Multivitamin Liposomal 15.22 OZ • SALE! $ 14.99 11. Natural Grocers Brand Bulk Organic Fruity Bears 8 OZ • Always Affordable $ 4.29 12. Stasher All Stasher Products 20% OFF SALE! $ 7.99- $ 21.91 13. White Leaf Provisions Organic Applesauce Pouches 12.7 OZ • SALE! $ 4.29 14. YumEarth® Organic Giggles Chewy Bites 5 OZ Always Affordable $ 6.65 15. YumEarth® Organic Assorted Fruit Chews 2 OZ Always Affordable $ 3.39 16. YumEarth® Organic Lollipops 2.8 OZ Always Affordable $ 4.45 17.
Natural Grocers® Brand Bath Bombs Always Affordable $ 3.99 4. Angie’s® Select Popcorn 4.4-7 OZ SALE! $ 3.19 1. Chocxo® Select Organic Chocolate Cups 3.45 OZ SALE! $ 5.99 2. Jovial® Organic Einkorn Cookies 8.8 OZ SALE! $ 3.99 3. Nixie® Organic Zero-Sugar Sodas 12 OZ SALE! $ 1.79 5. Natural Grocers® Brand Bulk Organic Jolly Beans 8 OZ • SALE $ 5.39 (4/1/26-4/30/26) 6.
8
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A New Look at Protein: Why More Isn’t Always Better
By Liz Mueller
100% GRASSFED ORGANIC MILK
Protein’s popularity is at an all-time high—from bars and shakes to diets aiming for 20–30 grams per meal. The message seems clear: more protein equals better health. And it’s true that protein is essential for building tissues, supporting immunity, making enzymes and hormones, and maintaining muscle across the lifespan. But more isn’t always better. Emerging research suggests that chronically excessive protein—
especially when it displaces vegetables —can increase dietary acid load (DAL) and place additional stress on bones and kidneys. The good news? The fix is simple: Pair protein with plenty of vegetables to keep your body strong and healthy.
Protein plays an important role at every stage of life. During pregnancy, it helps support a growing baby; in childhood, it fuels growth and strengthens the immune system; in adulthood, it helps maintain lean muscle; and in later years, it can make a real di erence in preserving strength and mobility and reducing frailty. The issue isn’t protein itself—it arises when intake exceeds balanced levels and isn’t paired with minerals and other alkalizing nutrients from vegetables. Protein Across the Lifespan
Natural Grocers ® | 24
Protein produces acidic byproducts during metabolism. Diets high in these foods raise dietary acid load, typically measured by Potential Renal Acid Load (PRAL). The body carefully maintains pH balance with bu ering minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium, but when these minerals are insu cient, particularly when vegetable intake is low, the body may leach calcium from bone to compensate, weakening them over time. Additionally, diets very high in protein may impair kidney function over time, especially in those already experiencing kidney dysfunction or disease. The answer? Eat more veggies! A recent systematic review and meta analysis found that people who ate five or more servings of vegetables and fruit per day—a diet pattern that lowers PRAL scores—had a significantly lower risk of hip fractures, which are linked to loss of independence, reduced mobility, and even higher mortality, compared with those who ate few vegetables and fruits, supporting the idea that vegetables and fruits, which are alkalizing, help protect bone health. Dietary patterns that include adequate—but not excessive— protein and su cient vegetables and fruit are also associated with improved kidney outcomes and slower decline in kidney function, particularly in aging populations and those at risk for chronic kidney disease. The Acid Load Issue: Why Balance Matters Protein is crucial for bone health because it builds the collagen matrix that gives bones their structure and allows minerals to be deposited; however, protein’s bone benefits depend on su cient intake of minerals, found largely in vegetables and fruits. Non-starchy vegetables are especially rich in minerals and contain alkalizing compounds that help neutralize dietary acid, supporting both bone and kidney health. Leafy greens, cruciferous vegetables, and colorful produce also provide fiber, antioxidants, and phytonutrients that support overall health. Research shows that diets higher in fruits and vegetables are associated with lower PRAL scores and more favorable markers of mineral balance, even when protein intake is relatively high, and a recent study showed that diets rich in high-quality carbohydrates—particularly vegetables—are associated with lower risk of cardiovascular disease, type-2 diabetes, cancer, cognitive decline, and all-cause mortality. Fiber-rich diets that are high in vegetables and fruits also support the production of short-chain fatty acids that regulate inflammation, insulin sensitivity, and bone metabolism. Recent systematic reviews indicate that higher protein intake is associated with neutral or beneficial bone outcomes when mineral and vegetable intake are su cient, but may be less favorable when fruits and vegetables are lacking. In fact, populations with lower fracture risk tend to consume both adequate protein and abundant vegetables—underscoring the importance of a balanced diet. Bridging Protein and Vegetables
Rethinking the Plate
Instead of building meals around protein alone, support a balanced approach: • Fill at least half of your plate with non-starchy vegetables • Include moderate portions of high-quality animal protein • Include healthy fats to support nutrient absorption and provide essential micronutrients
Protein is essential from conception to old age, but more is not always better. When protein intake increases without an abundant intake of vegetables, bone and kidney health may be compromised over time. The solution is simple and evidence-based: pair protein with plenty of vegetables to avoid the unintended trade-offs. The protein craze doesn’t need to disappear—it just needs more veggies. Protein powers your body, vegetables help it do its job safely.
For references, please visit naturalgrocers.com/issue-105
Natural Grocers ® | 25
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26 | Health Hotline ®
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APRIL 22-24
{N}POWER ® ONLY
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Receive a limited edition Earth Day reusable bag with purchase. Fr Reusable Bag * & FREE STICKER! GIFT CARD sw pstakes ENTER IN STORE FOR A CHANCE TO WIN! **
5 ways your f d choices impact health—yours and the planets Scan if you’re curious!
Natural Grocers ® Gift Card One Winner Company Wide $ 5
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Wednesday, 4/ ONLY! {N}POWER ® DIGITAL OFFER FREE *** CONTENTED HEN ® WHITE OR BROWN FREE-RANGE EGGS when you spend $22 or more and clip coupon in the mobile app or email starting 4/21.
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*Limit one per {N}power customer. Quantity limited to stock on hand; no rain checks. **NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. A PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. Open only to legal residents, 18 years or older, of the following states: AZ, AR, CO, ID, IA, KA, LA, MN, MO, MT, NE, NV, NM, ND, OK, OR, SD, TX, UT, WA, AND WY. Void where prohibited by law. Sweepstakes starts on 4/22/2026 and ends on 4/24/2026. Natural Grocers employ ees, including members of their households, are not eligible for this o er. For o cial rules and complete details, visit www.naturalgrocers.com/ sweepstakes. Sponsor: Vitamin Cottage Natural Food Markets, Inc. ***$22 minimum purchase required. Limit 1 per {N}power account. Valid in-store only. Click to load the free dozen of Contented Hen free-range eggs o er to your account from the Natural Grocers mobile app, {N}power email or your online dashboard starting on 4/21/2026. Quantity limited to stock on hand; no rainchecks. Pricing excludes taxes and is subject to change without notice. We reserve the right to correct errors. Void where prohibited by law. {N}power o ers available only to registered members and are subject to program terms and conditions available at www.naturalgrocers.com/terms. ****Limit one per customer. While supplies last. No rainchecks.
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