Health Hotline Magazine | July 2025

First page Table of contents 1 Next page Last page

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

F EE

OFFERS VALID JUNE 27 TO JULY 26, 2025

JULY 2025 VOL. 96

INTO SAVINGS! JULY 10–12

SEE PAGE 18!

36 % OFF UP TO SELECT PRODUCTS!

$ 50 VALUE! one winner per store

From July 1–31, spend $100 or more and get an automatic entry to win a Natural Grocers ® branded cooler bag and drinks! PLUS! One grand prize winner will win a trip to Lake Tahoe A $2,500 VALUE!

Starting at 11 AM, find a plush animal Sp ash Buddy with a special card attached at all Natural Grocers locations to win up to a $50 gift card! 10 LUCKY WINNERS PER STORE!

one winner company wide

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. SEE PAGE 20.

SEE PAGE 21

CONTENTS RECIPE: HONEY ALE PULLED CHICKEN SANDWICHES 13 4TH OF JULY PICNIC! 14 LIMITING HIGH OMEGA-6 OILS IN OUR DIET 16 SPLASH INTO SAVINGS! 18 OPTIMIZE YOUR HEALTH WITH CHOLINE 28 SPLASH BUDDIES SCAVENGER HUNT! 20 32 FOR THE LOVE OF ORGANICS: TOMATOES SPEND & WIN! 19

LETTE F OM THE Iselys

Dear July,

You’re such a lovely sheet of empty paper… not the crisp blank page of January, ripe with the ambition of a brand new year, but something warmer—sun-soaked, textured, the kind of surface our pens can’t quite get a grip on. You weren’t made for mapping out neat goals in bold ink but for something more fluid. A season for splashing, not scripting. A blur of watercolors that say nothing specific, and yet everything worth saying. You’re in no rush, July, rolling in with your bright mornings, meandering hot afternoons, and endless evenings when the sun doesn’t want to say goodnight. You beg us to bite into ripe peaches and sip fresh lemonade without checking our phones or ticking off to-do lists. You invite us to wander down the street in search of wildflowers, pluck dandelions, and make wishes. Whether you lull us to sleep with your languid heat or energize us with a sudden burst of rain, your cadence makes us feel temporarily free from everything that usually seems so important. Still, July, we’d like to pause within your carefree essence and connect with our roots, too—the things that truly are important. We want to dig our bare feet into the soil, with appreciation for everything it sustains. We want to dip our toes in the nearest body of water and let its refreshment fill our veins with wonder at its preciousness. We wish to sit beneath a shady tree or wander through the majestic elegance of a forest on a hot day, with reverence for the cool, purified air enveloping us. We want to crush fresh leaves of mint and basil between our fingertips, inhale their delicious scents, and appreciate that nature’s aromatics are unmatched. And we want to ground ourselves in the truth that this beautiful planet is ours to care for—because if not us, then who? All this is to say, July, we hope to accept your gifts of undemanding summertime bounty with gratitude—the kind we can feel from the tips of our toes digging into the dirt, all the way to the tops of our heads and the centers of our hearts. Let’s fill your empty page with colors, shapes, and, sometimes, even words that aren’t trying to become anything—just to enjoy being.

ANNIVERSARY IS COMING! 47

NATURALGROCERS.COM @naturalgrocers @shopnaturalgrocers

IMPORTANT TERMS AND CONDITIONS FOR HEALTH HOTLINE ® OFFERS Unless otherwise noted, these offers are available only from 6/27//25 to 7/26/25 and are redeemable only for in-store customer purchases at participating stores. Quantity limited to stock on hand, no rainchecks. Unless otherwise noted, all discounts are on regular prices, cannot be redeemed for store credit or cash, and cannot be combined with other offers. Pricing excludes taxes and is subject to change without notice. We reserve the right to correct errors. Void where prohibited by law. {N}power ® offers are available only to registered members and are subject to program terms and conditions available at www.naturalgrocers.com/npower. To join {N}power, visit www.naturalgrocers.com/join.

The Isely Family

OU 5 FOUNDING P INCIPLES

QUALITY PRODUCTS

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE PRICING

COMMITMENT TO OUR COMMUNITY

COMMITMENT TO OUR good4u CREW SM

NUTRITION EDUCATION

2 | Health Hotline ®

OFFERS VALID JUNE 27 TO JULY 26, 2025

INTRODUCING OUR ORGANIC WELLNESS SHOTS!

THRIVE will add zest to your day with this warming, pineapple ginger tonic! ALWAYS AFFORDABLE SM $ 2.99 $ 2 69 SALE! EACH 2 OZ.

DIGEST supports

digestive bliss with refreshing coconut water, pineapple, ginger, probiotics and more!

REVIVE supports your

BALANCE offers you a meditative moment with a mix of tart cherry, lemon, cucumber and probiotics!

immune system in delicious style with pomegranate,

ginger and elderberry!

BOOST helps you pick up the pace with an energizing blend of craft-brewed matcha, lemon, lime and ginger!

VITALITY brightens your morning with apple juice, apple cider vinegar, ginger and lemon!

A good day starts with a good decision: reaching for a shot of wellness, Natural Grocers ® Brand–style! Our Organic Wellness Shots are two ounces of fruity deliciousness, packed with ingredients that are selected to provide an energizing boost or help you feel your best. Each elixir combines fruit juices, botanicals, and—in our Digest shot and Ba ance shot—probiotics! All are crafted to support your wellness with Certified Organic, non-GMO, preservative-free, and gluten-free ingredients!

Natural Grocers ® | 3

Terms and conditions apply. See page 2 for details.

OFFERS VALID JUNE 27 TO JULY 26, 2025

GROCERY

EACH $ 1 35 37 % OFF LÄRABAR™ Fruit & Nut Bars 1.6 1.7 OZ.

2/ $ 6 31 % OFF

ANNIE’S™ Select Mac & Cheese Mixes 5.5 6 OZ. Easy, cheesy, and delicious. Annie’s mac & cheese mixes are free of artificial ingredients.

Made with a simple blend of fruits, nuts, and spices to fuel you with clean energy.

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE SM $ 2.15

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 4.39

31 % OFF

27 % OFF

25 % OFF

2/ $ 6 SIETE Potato Chips 5.5 OZ.

$ 2 89

$ 6 89 EACH

$ 3 89 FRONTERA ® Salsas 16 OZ.

MAISON PERRIER ® Sparkling Waters 8 PK

RJ’S™ Licorice 7 OZ.

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 4.19

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 9.49

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 5.19

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 4.15

2/ $ 5 25 % OFF

25 % OFF

$ 4 19 TEECCINO ® Herbal Teas 10 CT

$ 5 15

PATH WATER ® Waters 25 OZ. Drinking water in infinitely reusable aluminum bottles.

WOODSTOCK ® Organic Pickles 24 OZ. Made with fresh, crisp cucumbers pickled in a perfectly seasoned brine.

Upgrade your tea brewing with these complex herbal blends.

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 3.35

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 5.59

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 6.89

4 | Health Hotline ®

Terms and conditions apply. See page 2 for details.

GROCERY OFFERS VALID JUNE 27 TO JULY 26, 2025

21 % OFF

$ 9 99 25 % OFF

24 % OFF

$ 5

ZEVIA ® Zero-Sugar Sodas 12 PK Delivering zero-sugar, zero-calorie beverages that support a better-for-you lifestyle. EACH

SO DELICIOUS ® Organic Coconut Milk Beverages 32 OZ. Smooth, creamy, and delicious, these beverages are a perfect dairy replacement.

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE SM $ 13.49

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 3.29

2/ $ 3 23 % OFF

23 % OFF

$ 1 85

2/ $ 3

ROAR ORGANIC ® Organic Complete Hydration Waters 18 OZ. Delicious low-sugar, low-calorie beverages formulated to support complete hydration.

AURA BORA™ Sparkling Waters 12 OZ. Refreshing waters made with herbs, fruits, flowers, and nothing else.

KIND ® Nut Bars 1.4 OZ. Tasty bars made from real, simple ingredients bound together with honey and spices.

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 2.35

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 1.95

22 % OFF

$ 3 39 EACH

$ 3 49 EACH

$ 4

$ 6 99

BEYOND GOOD ® Chocolate Bars 2.64 OZ.

DANDIES ® Vegan Marshmallows 10 OZ.

PRIMAL KITCHEN ® Organic Unsweetened Ketchup / 18.5 OZ.

ETERNAL SPRING ® Alkaline Spring Water 1.5 L *Excludes Frisco, CO Location

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 4.39

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 4.49

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 2.59

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 8.99

Natural Grocers ® | 5

Terms and conditions apply. See page 2 for details.

OFFERS VALID JUNE 27 TO JULY 26, 2025

GROCERY

$ 2 79 25 % OFF

20 % OFF

$ 7 39

VITA COCO ® Farmers Organic Coconut Water / 16.9 OZ.

TONNINO Pole & Line Wild-Caught Yellowfin Tuna Fillets / 6.3 6.7 OZ. Delicious yellowfin tuna, sustainably caught in the age-old pole & line way.

Full of nutrients and electrolytes from hand-picked coconuts to power your hydration.

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 3.75

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE SM $ 9.25

21 % OFF

22 % OFF

$ 3 69

$ 2 15

$ 3 79

$ 2 99 PANDA ® Licorice Pouches 7 OZ.

SANTA CRUZ ORGANIC ® Select Organic Lemonades / 32 OZ.

SAN PELLEGRINO Sparkling Mineral Water 25.3 OZ.

BARNANA ® Organic Plantain Chips / 5 OZ.

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 3.79

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 4.79

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 2.79

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 4.85

21 % OFF

20 % OFF

$ 2 19

$ 22 99

$ 3 49 4505 MEATS Pork Rinds 2.5 3 OZ.

$ 6 69

RIOT ENERGY Organic Energy Drinks 16 OZ.

THE HONEST KITCHEN ® Grain-Free Chicken Recipe Clusters for Dogs / 5 LB

BACHAN’S ® Japanese BBQ Sauces 16 17 OZ.

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 2.79

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 29.39

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 4.39

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 8.39

6 | Health Hotline ®

Terms and conditions apply. See page 2 for details.

GROCERY OFFERS VALID JUNE 27 TO JULY 26, 2025

20 % OFF

$ 5 99 WATERLOO ® Sparkling Waters 12 PK EACH

$ 3 19

BOULDER CANYON ® Select Potato Chips 5.25 6.5 OZ. Get your snack on with these crisp potato chips, made with better-for-you oils.

Crisp and refreshing beverages made with authentic flavors and lively carbonation.

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE SM $ 3.99

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 7.49

20 % OFF

$ 3 79 CHICAS ® Tortilla Chips 7.5 11 OZ.

$ 2 39

$ 12 49

$ 6 19

LA TOURANGELLE ® Avocado Oil 16.9 OZ.

ICELANDIC GLACIAL™ Spring Water 1 L *Excludes Frisco, CO Location

LAKEWOOD ® Organic Pure Beet Juice 32 OZ.

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 2.99

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 4.79

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 7.75

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 15.79

$ 2 79 20 % OFF

$ 2 69 20 % OFF

2/ $ 6 20 % OFF

SOLELY Organic Mango & Passion Fruit Gummies 2.5 OZ.

POP & BOTTLE Oat Milk Lattes 8 OZ.

LOVE CORN ® Corn Snacks 4 OZ. A deliciously crunchy corn snack that is made with wholesome ingredients.

A tasty gummy snack made with two simple ingredients, just mango and passionfruit.

Clean and energizing lattes that are fortified with antioxidants, collagen, and adaptogens.

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 3.49

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 3.39

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 3.75

Natural Grocers ® | 7

Terms and conditions apply. See page 2 for details.

OFFERS VALID JUNE 27 TO JULY 26, 2025

GROCERY

POPPI ® Prebiotic Sodas 12 OZ. Deliciously crisp low-sugar sodas, brimming with prebiotics to support digestive health. 2/ $ 4 19 % OFF

$ 6 29 20 % OFF VIRGIL’S ® Bottled Sodas 4 PK

Handcrafted traditional sodas made with a belief that great drinks don’t need fake ingredients.

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE SM $ 2.49

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 7.95

$ 3 69 19 % OFF EACH

$ 3 89 18 % OFF

20 % OFF

$ 1 89

YACHAK ORGANIC Organic Yerba Mate Energy Drinks 16 OZ. 100% plant-based energy inspired by the power of the rainforest.

LILY’S SWEETS No-Sugar-Added Chocolate Bars 2.8 3 OZ. Treat yourself to decadent chocolate bars with none of the sugar.

C2O ® Original Pure Coconut Water 33.8 OZ. Hydrate and refresh with 100% pure coconut water that is packed with electrolytes.

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 2.39

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 4.59

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 4.79

10 % OFF

$ 4 85 17 % OFF EACH

12 % OFF

VITAL PLANET™ All Pet Supplements High quality pet-care solutions designed to help you support the optimal wellness of your furry friends. $ 18 99 - $ 37 99 EACH

$ 1 75

DAVE’S KILLER BREAD ® Organic Thin-Sliced Breads 20.5 OZ. Delicious artisan bread loaves packed with nutrition, that deliver a killer taste.

NATURAL GROCERS ® BRAND Wild Sardines / 4.375 OZ. Wild harvested in the North Pacific using methods that protect unintended species from harm.

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 21.39– $ 42.55

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 5.85

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 1.99

8 | Health Hotline ®

Terms and conditions apply. See page 2 for details.

GROCERY OFFERS VALID JUNE 27 TO JULY 26, 2025

25 % OFF UP TO

$ 4 99 11 % OFF

NATURAL GROCERS ® BRAND Skinless & Boneless Wild Pink Salmon 6 OZ. A tasty and convenient source of always affordable protein that is good for the planet.

SIMPLY ORGANIC ® Select Organic Products 0.14 8 OZ. High-quality seasonings, spices, and herbs to enhance your cooking experience.

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE SM $ 5.65

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 4.49- $ 34.79

$ 2 49 10 % OFF

10 % OFF

$ 4 49 10 % OFF

$ 1 79 EACH

NATURAL GROCERS BRAND Rocky Mountain Spring Water 25.3 OZ. Rocky Mountain spring water, bottled at the source through a gravity fed, zero-energy system.

NATURAL GROCERS BRAND Organic Sparkling Teas 12 OZ. Lightly carbonated teas, with a splash of fruity and botanical flavors, in a variety of caffeine levels.

NATURAL GROCERS BRAND Organic Gluten-Free Cereals 10 14 OZ. Hearty breakfast essentials with all the taste you expect and none of the gluten.

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 2.79

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 1.99

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 4.99

$ 4 49 10 % OFF

10 % OFF

$ 5 19 10 % OFF

$ 1 79 EACH

NATURAL GROCERS BRAND Select Organic Olives 6.3 7 OZ. These large, zesty olives are ripened to perfection and full of authentic Mediterranean flavor.

NATURAL GROCERS BRAND Organic Roasted Red Peppers 16 OZ. Add a hint of heat to your favorite dish with these traditionally prepared peppers.

NATURAL GROCERS BRAND Organic Sparkling Probiotic Waters 12 OZ. Refreshing sparkling waters that are gently flavored and boosted with probiotics for gut health.

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 4.99

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 1.99

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 5.79

Natural Grocers ® | 9

Terms and conditions apply. See page 2 for details.

IN THE fridge OFFERS VALID JUNE 27 TO JULY 26, 2025

39 % OFF

$ 4 79 28 % OFF EACH

$ 1 69 GT’S Agua de Kefirs ™ 12 OZ. EACH

FIELD ROAST Select Plant-Based Sausages 9.3 13 OZ. Delicious plant-based sausages in staple varieties that are high in protein and flavor.

An authentic, non-dairy beverage born from the prickly pear cactus.

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 6.69

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE SM $ 2.79

$ 2 55 24 % OFF

$ 3 35 22 % OFF EACH

$ 2 69 22 % OFF

HAIL MERRY Snack Cups 1.5 OZ. Tasty plant-based snack cups made from natural ingredients for guilt-free indulgence.

ALMOND BREEZE ® Select Almond Milks 64 OZ.

CULINA Select Coconut Yogurts 5 OZ. Thick and tangy plant-based yogurts made with craft-fermented coconut milk.

Smooth almond milks with 50% more calcium and 46% less calories than traditional dairy.

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 3.39

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 4.35

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 3.45

EACH $ 3 69 21 % OFF

$ 2 99 22 % OFF EACH

$ 4 85 21 % OFF

REBBL ® Organic Functional Beverages 12 OZ. Delicious natural beverages with an added functional twist to nourish while you refresh.

POP & BOTTLE Organic Almond Milk Lattes 11 OZ. Clean and energizing lattes that are fortified with antioxidants, collagen, and adaptogens.

FORAGER PROJECT ® Select Organic Cashew Milk Yogurts 24 OZ. Delicious, traditional style dairy-free yogurts that are rich in probiotic goodness.

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 4.69

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 3.85

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 6.15

10 | Health Hotline ®

Terms and conditions apply. See page 2 for details.

IN THE fridge OFFERS VALID JUNE 27 TO JULY 26, 2025

20 % OFF

$ 6 45 19 % OFF EACH

$ 7 39 19 % OFF

$ 1 89 EACH

LIVE ® SODA Organic Kombuchas 12 OZ.

WILDBRINE ® Probiotic Fermented Kimchi or Sauerkrauts / 18 OZ. Functional fermented favorites that add a splash of flavor to your meal.

BUBBIES ® Sauerkrauts 25 OZ. Made from the crisp center leaves of the finest winter cabbages.

Bubbly beverages brimming with live probiotics that are as beneficial as they are refreshing.

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE SM $ 2.39

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 7.99

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 9.15

$ 5 59 18 % OFF

$ 3 89 11 % OFF EACH

$ 9 29 SALE!

PER LB

MARY’S Organic Boneless Skinless Breast 1 LB Organic free-range chicken, air-chilled to lock in the superior freshness.

PEDERSON’S NATURAL FARMS™ Old-World Pork Kielbasa Sausage 14 OZ. These traditional, fully cooked sausages boast a robust and versatile flavor.

SILK ® Select Almond Milks 64 OZ. Great-tasting almond milks that put more plants in your diet.

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 9.99/LB

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 6.89

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 4.39

WE ARE PASSIONATE ABOUT YOUR HEALTH!

14 % OFF

$ 2 99 EACH

SCAN THE QR CODE AND LEARN ABOUT OUR GROCERY STANDARDS!

NATURAL GROCERS ® BRAND Select Organic Parmesan Cheeses 4 OZ.

Bringing the bold flavors of traditional Italian cuisine straight to your table.

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 3.49

® | 11

Natural Grocers

Terms and conditions apply. See page 2 for details.

OFFERS VALID JUNE 27 TO JULY 26, 2025

IN THE FREEZER

23 % OFF

33 % OFF

$ 5 79 22 % OFF EACH

$ 4 15 EACH

$ 5 19 EACH

UDI’S ® Gluten-Free Hamburger Buns 10.4 10.8 OZ. Soft, golden buns that are the ideal foundation for your perfect burger.

CANYON BAKEHOUSE ® Select Gluten-Free Breads 18 OZ. Delicious and flavorful classics that re-imagine what gluten-free can be.

COSMIC BLISS ® Organic Coconut Milk Ice Creams 14 OZ. These out-of-this-world ice creams are indulgence done right.

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 5.39

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE SM $ 7.79

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 7.49

$ 4 99 18 % OFF

$ 4 95 21 % OFF

$ 4 89 20 % OFF

DR. PRAEGER’S ® Select Veggie Burgers 10 OZ.

GOODPOP ® Select Frozen Desserts 9.9 14 OZ. Delicious frozen treats that are made with wholesome, plant-based ingredients.

WOODSTOCK ® Frozen Organic Blueberries 10 OZ. A delicious way to reach your daily fruit goals, year round.

Flavorful and satisfying meat-free burgers that are packed with plant-based protein.

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 6.29

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 6.15

$ 4 59 11 % OFF

10 % OFF

$ 10 45 12 % OFF

$ 6 29 EACH

FORCE OF NATURE Grass-Fed Ancestral Regenerative Ground Beef / 16 OZ. Superior beef raised through regenerative practices to conserve the land and sequester carbon.

BEELER’S PORK Uncured Hot Dogs 12 OZ.

NATURAL GROCERS ® BRAND Select Organic Frozen Pizzas 12.2 13.4 OZ. Bring the wood-fired flavor of a traditional Italian pizzeria to your kitchen in less than 15 minutes!

Fully cooked hot dogs made without any added nitrates and no antibiotics ever.

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 11.99

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 5.19

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 6.99

12 | Health Hotline ®

Terms and conditions apply. See page 2 for details.

Pulled Chicken Sandwiches Honey Ale

Our Honey Ale Pulled Chicken is a mouthwatering blend of tender, juicy chicken infused with the avors of honey and ale, and a subtle kick of spice. With only 10 minutes of prep and four hours of e ortless slow cooking, this dish practically makes itself. Whether you’re hosting a lazy weekend lunch or gathering with friends or family, this recipe promises a burst of avor that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients Serves: 8–10 | Prep time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 4 hours 5 minutes | Total time: 4 hours 15 minutes

¼ cup Natural Grocers ® Brand Raw and Unfiltered Clover Honey 2 tablespoons Natural Grocers Brand Organic Apple Cider Vinegar Natural Grocers Brand Bulk seasonings:

1 tablespoon Organic Chili Powder 1 teaspoon Organic Smoked Paprika 1 teaspoon Organic Onion Powder 1 teaspoon Organic Garlic Powder ½ teaspoon Real Salt

2 tablespoons sriracha or other hot sauce 1 (12-ounce) can gluten-free ale or dark beer 2–2 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (approximately 8 thighs) 1 tablespoon tapioca flour 1 tablespoon cold filtered water 8 gluten-free soft rolls

Optional toppings: Natural Grocers Brand Dill Pickle Chips, organic coleslaw, thinly sliced organic onion, extra hot sauce

Instructions

1. Stir together the honey, vinegar, seasonings, hot sauce, and ale in the slow cooker. 2. Add the chicken thighs, gently tossing to coat with the sauce. 3. Cover and cook on low for four hours, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through (temperature of 165°F). Once done, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred with two forks. 4.Skim o any fat from the surface of the cooking liquid and strain the liquid into a small saucepan. Bring to a boil. Let the liquid boil for 8–10 minutes, until it’s reduced to approximately one cup. 5. While the liquid is boiling, combine the tapioca flour and water to make a slurry. Once the liquid has reduced to about a cup, reduce the heat and add the slurry, stirring constantly until thickened. 6.Add the shredded chicken back to the slow cooker and pour in the reduced sauce. Toss to coat and leave the slow cooker on warm heat. Serve on buns with optional toppings if desired.

Natural Grocers ® | 13

JULY 4 TH PICNIC DEALS JUNE 27-JULY 3 *

50 % OFF

37 % OFF

MAISON PERRIER ® Sparkling Waters 8 PK $ 5 49 EACH 42 % OFF

$ 1 39 EACH

$ 2 59 EACH

GT’S Agua de Kefirs™ 12 OZ.

SIETE Potato Chips 5.5 OZ.

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE SM $ 2.79

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 9.49

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 4.15

FIELD ROAST Select P ant-Based Sausages 9.3–13 OZ. $ 4 29 EACH 35 % OFF

34 % OFF

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 2.79 SAN PELLEGRINO Sparkling Mineral Water 25.3 OZ. $ 1 79 35 % OFF SANTA CRUZ ORGANIC ® Select Organic Lemonades 32 OZ. $ 3 15 34 % OFF

$ 2 89 EACH

BEYOND GOOD ® Choco ate Bars 2.64 OZ.

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 6.69

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 4.39

WOODSTOCK ® Organic Pickles 24 OZ. $ 4 69 31 % OFF

BACHAN’S ® Japanese BBQ Sauces 16–17 OZ. $ 5 69 32 % OFF

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 4.79

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 8.39

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 6.89

*O ers are redeemable only for in-store customer purchases at participating stores. Any stated discounts are on regular prices and cannot be combined with other o ers. Quantity limited to stock on hand; no rain checks. Pricing excludes taxes and is subject to change without notice. We reserve the right to correct errors. Void where prohibited by law.

14 | Health Hotline ®

JUNE 27-JULY 3 *

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 17.49 AMERICAN HEALTH ® Super Papaya Enzyme Plus 360 CHEW $ 12 99 25 % OFF ANCIENT NUTRITION Multi-Col agen Protein 16 OZ. $ 31 99 20 % OFF NATURAL GROCERS BRAND BULK Giant Toasted Corn - 10 OZ. $ 3 49 SALE! ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 39.99

ETERNAL SPRING ® Alkaline Spring Water 1.5 L $ 1 85 28 % OFF

FRONTERA ® Salsas 16 OZ. $ 3 59 30 % OFF

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 2.59 *Excludes Frisco, CO Location

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE SM $ 5.19

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 5.39 UDI’S ® Gluten-Free Hamburger Buns 10.4–10.8 OZ. $ 3 99 EACH 25 % OFF $ 17 99 _ $ 35 99 15 % OFF ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 21.39 $ 42.55 VITAL PLANET™ All Pet Supplements

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 6.89 PEDERSON’S NATURAL FARMS™ Old-World Pork Kielbasa Sausage - 14 OZ. $ 5 15 25 % OFF NATURAL GROCERS ® BRAND BULK Lemonade Rings - 8 OZ. $ 2 99 SALE!

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 3.29

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 3.79

$ 7 75

THOUSAND HILLS ® 80/20 Grass-Fed Ground Beef 16 OZ. (1 LB)

SALE! {N}POWER PRICING ONLY

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 8.15

Natural Grocers ® | 15

Are “Vegetable” Oils Jeopardizing Your Health? They’re not as healthy as you might think

By Lindsay Wilson

We’ve come a long way from the low- to no-fat diet trends of the 1980s and 90s— we nally understand that fat is not only good for us, but necessary for our bodies to function—but when it comes to understanding which fats are actually healthy, and those that are not, we’ve still got a long way to go. Case in point: high omega-6 oils like corn, sun ower, and soybean oils. These oils have long been touted as “healthy” alternatives to saturated fats found in traditional foods like butter and lard, particularly when it comes to heart health, and as a consequence, they have become the predominant fat in the average American’s diet. We cook with them at home and in restaurants, and they are ubiquitous in processed food, but when consumed in excess, these high omega-6 oils can promote in ammation and may contribute to the development of chronic disease, including heart disease.

Omega-6s vs. Omega-3s: Why the Ratio Matters

Both omega-6s and omega-3s belong to a class of fats called polyunsaturated fats, and our bodies require both types—in the proper ratio—to function properly. Both types are integral parts of our cell membranes and a ect their fluidity, flexibility, and ability to function in a healthy way. They also modulate inflammatory processes in our bodies, with omega-3s being more anti-inflammatory and omega-6s generally being more pro-inflammatory. Omega-6s are not innately bad—it’s the large amounts that we consume, in the absence of omega-3s, that make them unhealthy. While humans once consumed a ratio of about 4:1 or less of omega-6 to omega-3, that ratio has shifted to 20:1, or higher. Modern day humans eat a diet that is deficient in anti inflammatory omega-3s and is skewed toward an excessive amount of pro-inflammatory omega-6s, particularly in the form of processed vegetable oils. This promotes low-grade inflammation and oxidative stress, which may eventually lead to the development of diseases like cardiovascular disease, cancer, and inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Consider these numbers: A ratio of 4:1 of omega-6 to omega-3 was associated with a 70 percent decrease in mortality associated with cardiovascular disease; a ratio of 2.5:1 reduced cell proliferation in patients with colorectal cancer; a ratio of 5:1 had a beneficial e ect on patients with asthma; and a ratio of 2-3:1 suppressed inflammation in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. The takeaway? A lower omega-6 to omega-3 ratio is supportive of overall health.

16 | Health Hotline ®

The Heart of the Matter Vegetable oils are promoted as “heart healthy,” in part because they were shown in early studies to lower cholesterol. However, we now know that cholesterol is not the main driver of cardiovascular disease and new analyses of research show a more complex reality. Take for example the Minnesota Coronary Experiment (MCE), conducted from 1968 to 1973. This trial reported that replacing saturated fat with vegetable oil (specifically corn oil) reduced coronary heart disease and death by lowering serum cholesterol. But a fresh analysis of the study, published in 2016, reviewed unpublished data on the 9,423 participants of the MCE and found that while replacing saturated fats with vegetable oils did indeed lower cholesterol levels, there was “no mortality benefit for the intervention group.” And in fact, “There was a 22% higher risk of death for each 30 mg/dL reduction in serum

cholesterol…” and “There was no evidence of benefit in the intervention group for coronary atherosclerosis or myocardial infarcts [heart attacks].” In analyses of other studies, “these cholesterol lowering interventions showed no evidence of benefit on mortality from coronary heart disease or all-cause mortality.” The researchers concluded by saying that findings from the Minnesota Coronary Experiment “add to growing evidence that incomplete publication has contributed to overestimation [of benefits], and underestimation of potential risks, of replacing saturated fat with vegetable oils rich in linoleic acid [the main omega-6 found in vegetable oil].” A review published in 2018 in the journal Open Heart presented research that showed vegetable oils high in omega-6 fats may actually drive the development of atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease in part by promoting oxidative damage and inflammation in the endothelium (the lining of our blood vessels) and increasing the oxidation of LDL cholesterol. Other research has similar findings, showing that the consumption of vegetable oils high in omega-6s increase inflammation in the aorta and endothelium, contribute to low-grade inflammation, oxidative stress, and endothelial dysfunction.

Omega-6 a Root Cause of Degenerative Diseases A 2020 review investigated vegetable oil’s potential role in the development of lifestyle diseases including obesity, type-2 diabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and Alzheimer’s by increasing damage to cells. The review describes how vegetable oils like corn, soybean, and sunflower create a substance called hydroxynonenal when heated, which researchers believe plays a key role in cell degeneration and death. Further, even vegetable oils that are not deep fried (like those found in mayonnaise, salad dressing, etc.) will be incorporated into cell membranes and LDL cholesterol, where they increase inflammation and oxidative damage. The researchers conclude that decreasing the consumption of omega-6 oils while increasing the consumption of omega-3 oils is critical in preventing various lifestyle diseases. This is key because both types of fat compete for space in cell membranes; in other words, if you are consuming more omega-6 fats compared to omega-3 fats, your cell membranes will mostly be comprised of pro-inflammatory omega-6s. Find a Healthy Balance

A Note On Omega-9 Fats

While much focus is on the omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids, omega-9 is another important one to know. Omega-9 fats are a type of monounsaturated fatty acid and have their own health benefits including supporting cardiovascular health and a healthy weight; the most common omega-9 fat is oleic acid. Olive oil is one of the best-known sources,

containing 55 to 83 percent oleic acid. High-oleic sunflower and sa ower oils are specifically made to

As with most things in life, balance is key. Start reading labels— once you start looking for vegetable oils, you will find them everywhere (I recently found soybean oil in the ingredient list of Italian sausage). In general, most processed foods (packaged snacks, cookies, salad dressings, crackers, chips, etc.) will contain some type of vegetable oil. The same goes for fast food and restaurant food. Avoid these as much as possible. At home, choose oils such as coconut oil, butter, high oleic sunflower or high-oleic sa ower oils, and extra virgin olive oil for cooking. In general, look for oils that contain a higher amount of saturated and/or monounsaturated fat in relation to polyunsaturated fats (which are typically omega-6). Last but not least, take a quality omega-3 fish oil supplement. The large majority of us simply don’t eat enough cold-water fatty fish (one of the main food sources of omega-3s) to get optimal amounts. A supplement will ensure that you saturate your cell membranes with the good stu !

reduce omega-6 content while increasing omega-9 as oleic acid; they typically contain a minimum of 80

percent oleic acid. Be sure to look for “high-oleic”—regular sunflower and sa ower oils are very high in omega-6 fats. When checking the nutrition label, look for a higher amount of monounsaturated fat (omega-9) versus polyunsaturated fat (typically omega-6). These oils are healthy alternatives to high omega-6 oils like corn, soybean, and canola oils.

Natural Grocers ® | 17

For references, please visit naturalgrocers.com/issue-96

ZHOU ® NUTRITION N.O. Pro™ with Beet Root 120 VCAP ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 27.39 $ 17 99 34 % OFF

SAN PELLEGRINO Italian Sparkling Drinks 6 PK ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 7.99 $ 5 19 35 % OFF

36 % OFF

VITA COCO ® Farmers Organic Coconut Water / 16.9 OZ. ALWAYS AFFORDABLE SM $ 3.75 $ 2 39

NON Project V E R I F I ED nongmoproject.org GMO

33 % OFF

C2O ® Original Pure Coconut Water / 33.8 OZ. ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 4.79 $ 3 19

$ 3 69

TEECCINO ® Herbal Teas 10 CT

NON Project V E R I F I ED nongmoproject.org GMO

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 5.59

30 % OFF

YACHAK ORGANIC Organic Yerba Mate Energy Drinks / 16 OZ. ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 2.39 $ 1 65

2/ $ 5

$ 3 35

LOVE CORN ® Corn Snacks 4 OZ.

CHICAS ® Tortil a Chips 7.5–11 OZ.

NON Project V E R I F I ED nongmoproject.org GMO

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 3.75

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 4.79

*Offers are available 7/10/2025 through 7/12/2025 for in store purchases at participating Natural Grocers stores.. Any stated discounts are on regular prices and cannot be combined with other offers. Quantity limited to stock on hand; no rain checks. Pricing excludes taxes and is subject to change without notice. We reserve the right to correct errors. Void where prohibited by law.

18 | Health Hotline ®

JULY 10–12

27 % OFF

ROAR ORGANIC ® Organic Complete Hydration Waters / 18 OZ. ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 2.35 $ 1 69 28 % OFF WOODSTOCK ® Organic Frozen Blueberries 10 OZ. ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 6.15 $ 4 55 26 % OFF

29 % OFF

$ 5 49

$ 3 19

LAKEWOOD ® Organic Pure Beet Juice / 32 OZ.

4505 MEATS Pork Rinds 2.5-3 OZ.

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE SM $ 7.75

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 4.39

LIVE ® SODA Organic Kombuchas 12 OZ. ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 2.39 $ 1 75 26 % OFF EACH

ZHOU ® NUTRITION Daily Greens 5 OZ. ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 17.85 $ 13 49 24 % OFF

14 % OFF

ULTIMA REPLENISHER ® Electrolyte Powder 3.2–3.9 OZ. ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 21.79 $ 17 29 20 % OFF EACH

SALE!

NATURAL GROCERS ® BRAND Peruvian Chips / 5 OZ. ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 3.49 $ 2 99 EACH

NATURAL GROCERS BRAND BULK Select Loose Teas / 3 OZ. ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 3.85 $ 3 49 EACH

NON Project V E R I F I ED nongmoproject.org GMO

Natural Grocers ® | 19

From July 1–31, spend $ 100 or more and get an automatic entry to win * a Natural Grocers ® branded cooler bag and drinks! PLUS! One grand prize winner will win a trip to Lake Tahoe * A $ 2,500 VALUE! $ 50 VALUE! one winner per store

one winner company wide

*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, KS, LA, MN, MO, MT, NE, NV, NM, ND, OK, OR, SD, TX, UT, WA and WY. Must be an {N}power member to enter. Void where prohibited by law. Sweepstakes starts on 7/1/2025 and ends on 7/31/2025. Winner will receive a $50 gift card, equal to approximately the value of one cooler bag and drinks. Grand prize winner will receive a trip to Lake Tahoe or $2,500 in cash, at sponsor’s sole discretion. For Official Rules and alternative method of entry, visit: www.naturalgrocers.com/sweepstakes. Sponsor: Vitamin Cottage Natural Food Markets, Inc.

20 | Health Hotline ®

Starting at 11 AM, find the plush animal Sp ash Buddy with a special card attached at all Natural Grocers ® locations to WIN UP TO A $ 50 GIFT CARD! *

10 LUCKY WINNERS PER STORE!

*NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. A PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. Void where prohibited by law. Contest starts at all stores on 7/12/2025 at 11:00 a.m. local time. 10 prizes will be awarded at each store upon finding an animal splash buddy, including nine $10 gift cards and one $50 gift card. Limit one gift card prize per winner. Crew and members of their households are not eligible. For Official Rules and complete details, visit: www.naturalgrocers.com/sweepstakes. Sponsor: Vitamin Cottage Natural Food Markets, Inc.

Natural Grocers ® | 21

OFFERS VALID JUNE 27 TO JULY 26, 2025

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE SM $ 5.99 $ 4 99 SALE! EACH 10 OZ.

$ 5 69 SALE! 10 OZ. ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 6.69

NATU AL G OCE S ® B AND BUL O GANIC OASTED CASHEWS (SALTED AND UNSALTED VA IETIES) Each handful of our organic roasted cashews come packed with flavor, plus good4u SM fats, minerals, and free radical scavengers.

NATU AL G OCE S B AND BUL O GANIC SPICY PUMP IN SEEDS

When you need to spice things up, these organic spicy pumpkins seeds are just the tasty ticket! Grab your bag today!

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 5.29 $ 4 79 SALE! 6 OZ.

$ 7 99 SALE! 10 OZ. ALWAYS AFFORDABLE $ 8.99

NATU AL G OCE S B AND BUL O GANIC DA CHOCOLATE ALMONDS

NATU AL G OCE S B AND BUL O GANIC DELUXE NUT MIX

Get ready to be treated to a delightful combination of cashews, almonds, pecans, and walnuts! Not only insanely good, this mix is unparalleled as a healthy, organic, dry-roasted snack.

A perfect combination of bittersweet dark chocolate and nutty almond sweetness make these the perfect indulgent snack on the go!

22 | Health Hotline ®

Terms and conditions apply. See page 2 for details.

NUTRITION

By Aryn Doll and Katherine MacNair

Just Five Minutes of Daily Exercise Benefits Physical and Mental Health We’re increasingly aware that spending too much time sitting can take a toll on health, raising the risk of chronic disease and premature death, but new research shows you don’t need to log hours at the gym to make a meaningful impact. A 2025 study found that just five minutes of daily exercise can benefit both physical and mental health, suggesting that even a small dose of movement each day can be surprisingly effective.

Published in the European Journal of Applied Physiology , the study investigated how brief, daily workouts affect physical fitness, body composition, and mental wellbeing in healthy but sedentary adults. Participants followed a four-week exercise program that required just five minutes a day, performing 10 repetitions each of four bodyweight exercises: chair squats, chair reclines, wall push-ups, and heel drops. Each movement emphasized the eccentric phase— lowering slowly and with control for five seconds—followed by a quick return to the starting position. As participants progressed and mastered the exercises, modifications were introduced to increase difficulty, such as one-leg chair squats, straight-leg chair reclines, and standard push-ups. After the program, while overall body composition did not change (likely due to the short training period), participants experienced significant improvements in physical fitness, including strength and muscular endurance. For example, the number of push-ups and sit-ups they could complete within a set time increased notably. Mental health scores like vitality also significantly improved, and most subjects reported feeling stronger, fitter, and overall healthier. Finally, adherence to the program was strong throughout, and many continued exercising after the intervention ended, highlighting how starting with a simple, manageable routine can build consistency and lay the foundation for lasting lifestyle change.

Glyphosate Exacerbates Inf ammation and Alzheimer’s-Like Damage In the Brain A recent study from Arizona State University found that glyphosate, a chemical commonly found in commercial herbicides, contributes to brain inflammation and accelerates signs of Alzheimer’s-like disease in mice, even after a six-month recovery period. Researchers used two genetic types of mice: normal and those genetically predisposed to brain degeneration similar to what humans with Alzheimer’s disease experience. They separated each type of mouse into three groups and exposed them to either 0 mg/kg, 50 mg/kg, or 500 mg/kg of glyphosate daily for 13 weeks, then they stopped exposing the mice with glyphosate for six months. After the six-month recovery period, samples of the mice’s blood and brain tissue were assessed for inflammatory markers, signs of neurodegeneration, and levels of glyphosate and its byproducts. Both genetic types of mice who were exposed to glyphosate at either dosage showed

increased markers of inflammation in the brain six months after their final dose, with the most significant increases occurring in the highest-dose group. The mice who were genetically predisposed to Alzheimer’s-like changes and exposed to glyphosate also exhibited greater signs of anxiety-like behavior, were more likely to die prematurely, and had increased presence of brain abnormalities like amyloid beta plaques and neurofibrillary tau tangles compared to mice with similar genetics who were not exposed to glyphosate. In addition, both types of mice who received glyphosate were found to have significant levels of aminomethylphosphonic acid (AMPA) in their brain tissue six months after their last exposure, compared to the mice that were not exposed to glyphosate. AMPA is a metabolic byproduct of glyphosate and has similar toxicity. The mechanism of how this chemical got into the brain has yet to be determined, but the researchers hypothesized that glyphosate was metabolized into AMPA by gut bacteria, after which it crossed the blood-brain barrier and accumulated in brain tissue. The lingering presence of AMPA may be one important contributor to persistent inflammation in the brain and the acceleration of Alzheimer’s-like brain changes, among other factors in a complex interplay of immune and metabolic dysregulation.

For references, please visit: naturalgrocers.com/issue-96

Natural Grocers ® | 23

SPEND $1, GET 1 POINT

{

}

FOR EVERY 200 POINTS, GET A $2 REWARD †

R ®

W N L

A Y !

D O

GET $2 ON YOUR {N}POWER ANNIVERSARY

Scan the QR Code to download our NEW Mobile App and sign up for {N}power today!

SAVE ON EGGS, AVOCADOS, MARY’S CHICKENS & MORE

GET EXCLUSIVE DEALS AND SURPRISE OFFERS

Visit NaturalGrocers.com/join , or simply text ORGANIC to 303-986-4600 ‡ to join!

* Coupons will be emailed to email address provided upon signup and must be loaded from the email or on the Natural Grocers® mobile app. † Maximum reward of $100 per {N}power member each quarter. {N}power® offers available only to registered members and are subject to program terms and conditions available at www.naturalgrocers.com/terms. ‡ Message and data rates may apply.

24 | Health Hotline ®

OFFERS VALID JUNE 27 TO JULY 26, 2025

{N}POWER ® PRICING ONLY!

FEED UP TO 4 PEOPLE FOR UNDER $16 * $ 4 UNDER SERVING PER GRILLED CHICKEN WITH VEGGIES

ORGANIC CHICKEN OPTION UNDER $18 *

$ 9 99 1 CT

$ 11 99 1 CT

$ 2 29 PER LB

$ 1 49 PER LB

MARY’S NON-GMO CHICKEN

MARY’S ORGANIC NON-GMO CHICKEN DEAL USES WHOLE CHICKEN - $11.99 *

ORGANIC ZUCCHINI

ORGANIC YELLOW SQUASH

ORGANIC RED ONION

DEAL USES ½ LB - 75¢ *

DEAL USES 1 LB - $2.29 *

DEAL USES WHOLE CHICKEN - $9.99 *

ADD SOME ALWAYS AFFORDABLE SM VARIETY

GET THE RECIPE HERE!

$ 5 19 5 OZ.

$ 9 99 16.9 OZ. EA

$ 5 55 18 OZ.

NATURAL GROCERS BRAND BULK ORGANIC MESQUITE GRILLING RUB

NATURAL GROCERS ® BRAND ORGANIC EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL

WOODSTOCK ® SELECT ORGANIC BBQ SAUCES

ENTER YOUR PHONE NUMBER AT CHECK OUT TO REDEEM. THIS OFFER IS AVAILABLE ONLY TO REGISTERED {N}POWER MEMBERS. *Under price reflects quantities listed below ingredients. Void where prohibited by law.

Natural Grocers ® | 25

Terms and conditions apply. See page 2 for details.

By Charity Isely

Fighting Erosion & Building Biodiversity, One Prairie Strip at a Time

Where wildflowers bloom, the honey tastes better, the pheasants cackle, and the farmer’s soil holds its own against erosion! That’s the experience of Iowa farmer Eric Hoien, as he described to BioScience in 2023. Integrating prairie strips—patches of native prairie plants woven between his rows of crops—has brought beauty, biodiversity, and a surprising boost to a neighbor’s honey harvest. But for Hoien, a primary motivation was water quality. After flying over the Gulf of Mexico and seeing the vast brown sprawl of the “dead zone”—oxygen-starved water where marine life cannot survive—he returned home determined to be part of the solution.

It’s the long roots of prairie plants that do the heavy lifting. They’ve been described as “mini speed-bumps” during intense rain, slowing runoff and giving the soil more time to absorb moisture. A dense layer of stems and leaves reduces surface flow while the roots anchor soil layers underground, absorbing excess water and nutrients like nitrates and phosphorus. But the impact also extends to biodiversity. The STRIPS team found that, on average, prairie sites hosted 51 plant species, compared to just 13 in row-crop fields. This resurgence of native plants supports a diverse web of life: beneficial predators like ladybugs, 70 native bee species, and North America’s most threatened bird group, grassland birds. Fields with prairie strips had nearly three times more grassland birds than those without and almost double overall bird density. at $24 to $35 per acre. Early results also showed no negative impact on yields and no competition with crops for water or nutrients, as lead researcher Lisa Schulte Moore explained in an interview for the 2023 BioScience article. And farmers are adopting at rapid rates—between 2020 and 2022, acreage had climbed from almost 2,000 to more than 15,000 across 12 states. Perhaps most rewarding, are the beyond-functional benefits adopters reported in a 2023 survey. Inspiration, relaxation, connection to nature… this is what farmers are experiencing in their small slices of prairie—listening to the music of summer insects and feasting their eyes on a riot of color. The diversity of plants and wildlife is bringing back the vibrancy and wonder long muted by endless rows of corn and soy. And sometimes, just maybe, it also brings a delightful gift of honey from a beekeeping neighbor. So wherever the wildflowers bloom and native grasses sway in warm July breezes, may we take a moment to honor their deep roots. And perhaps we might consider weaving small planet healing acts of restoration into our daily lives—metaphorical prairie strips, you see. In 2018, prairie strips became an official part of the USDA’s Conservation Reserve Program, ranking among the most affordable practices

When rain washes sediment off farm fields, it carries nitrogen and phosphorus from synthetic fertilizers into rivers that eventually feed into the Gulf, fueling the dead zone’s return every summer. Healthier soil—especially in a region where erosion has long been treated as the cost of doing business—is a key tool for reducing this nutrient pollution. Enter the power of native grasses and wildflowers: research from Iowa State University shows that converting just 10 percent of farmland to prairie strips can reduce soil erosion up to 95 percent!

The concept took root in 2003 when Iowa State University researchers teamed up with the Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge to test whether reintroducing bands of prairie into corn and soybean fields could help address some of Iowa’s most significant agricultural challenges. With more than 85 percent of the state’s land dedicated to farming, they focused on reducing erosion, improving water quality, while also promoting biodiversity. By 2017, the team had gathered enough field data to confirm what earlier experiments suggested: prairie strips work in real-world conditions. Findings published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences showed that integrating prairie strips reduced nitrogen runoff by 70 percent, phosphorus by 77 percent, and nitrate loss to groundwater by 72 percent. Combined with the earlier reported 95 percent drop in erosion, the results highlight a powerful tool for strengthening soil health and reducing agricultural nutrient pollution.

For references, please visit: naturalgrocers.com/issue-96 Photos provided by Iowa State University

26 | Health Hotline ®

Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28 Page 29 Page 30 Page 31 Page 32 Page 33 Page 34 Page 35 Page 36 Page 37 Page 38 Page 39 Page 40 Page 41 Page 42 Page 43 Page 44 Page 45 Page 46 Page 47 Page 48

Made with FlippingBook Annual report maker