Have you seen that new, buzzworthy Netflix doc yet? Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones takes a look at the secrets of longevity in five “Blue Zone” regions of the world. That got us thinking about how you are what you eat — and made us wonder what we can do to make living healthy (or at least, healthy-ish) easier.
That’s why we’re sharing eight local spots in Nooga where you can find good-for-you eats + wholesome ingredients.
📍For fruits + veggies
Head to the Main St. Farmers Markets
on Wednesdays from 4 to 6 p.m. to shop seasonal fruits and veggies. Pro tip: Sign up for their newsletter
for the inside scoop of what will be at the market that week.
- Fruits and vegetables (like tomatoes, berries, broccoli, and carrots) contain phytochemicals , vitamins, antioxidants, and more. Bonus: See these color-coded tips for eating more fruits and veggies.
📍 For beans + legumes
On the go? Stop by Vibrant Meals
for freshly prepared dishes like the vegan taco bowl, that subs beans for meat — and bookmark our guide to the top vegan and vegetarian spots
in Chattanooga.
- Beans are rich in fiber, plant-proteins, and nutritious properties said to have several health benefits . Plus, they’re a great (and filling) alt to meat.
📍 For breads and grains
Pick up a loaf of the 6 Grain 4 Seed bread from Niedlov’s Bakery & Café
. It’s made with organic whole wheat flour, six grains, and four varieties of seeds. Bonus: Stock up on grains for your pantry by shopping the bulk section of Gaining Ground Grocery
.
- See these tips for identifying “whole” grains to make sure you’re getting the full benefit of grains. Sources of whole grains include whole wheat bread, quinoa, brown rice, barley, faro, and more.
📍 For Mediterranean eats
Take the scenic route through Lookout Mountain to visit a newly opened, authentically Mediterranean restaurant, Massey’s Kitchen
— serving up Italian, Spanish, and Greek-inspired cuisine.
- Growing evidence shows that the Mediterranean Diet — a way of eating inspired by the habits of people living in Mediterranean regions— is associated with numerous health benefits. Is it coincidence that two of the five “Blue Zone” cities are along the Mediterranean Sea?
📍 For “superfood lattes”
Try Mean Mug Coffeehouse’s
Superfood Lattes, like the matcha-based Green Latte or the Mahogany Latte, made with cacao, a five-mushroom blend + honey. Add a shot of espresso for an energy kick — and to get a dose of coffee’s antioxidant properties.
- Matcha comes from the same plant as green tea, but receives an amino acid boost due to the way it’s grown. It’s also said to have these seven potential health benefits .
- Mushroom teas are a wellness trend that just might actually have a few health benefits .
📍 For fresh seafood
Get your seafood fix at Boathouse Rotisserie & Raw Bar
. We recommend the wood grilled salmon + ahi tuna poke bowl — and sitting outside on the patio to enjoy your meal with the scenic views of the Tennessee River.
- Fish contains good-for-you omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D.