“I Want to be Healthy”
There is a buzz going on in Uptown Whittier. It's all about getting healthy. People are using phrases like “I want to be healthy” or “Have you had your shot today”? They are talking about organic food and wheat grass. Wheat grass is likely one of the healthiest drinks you can put into your body and you can find it at Fenix 5-4, a new, healthy organic eatery and deli in Uptown Whittier, owned by Kyle Koestner and Johnny Nixon.
“Fenix 5-4” An Organic Eatery and Deli
At Fenix 5-4, you will not find pesticides, hormones or harmful chemicals in the many menu items being offered. They offer salads with organic fruit and vegetables, juices, free range chicken, sandwiches and an array of healthy juices, shakes, smoothies and organic coffee. Eating healthy never tasted so good!
Weird Science
It is so refreshing to see so many people be inspired to put good food in our bodies. We are in the midst of our country dealing with a nationwide epidemic of obesity, diabetes, cancer and an array of diseases that are often often attributed to genetically modified foods (GMO). "Weird science" seems to be a fitting term for GMO because the body does not fully recognize food that was created or modified in a laboratory. Our body has to work overtime to process what it does not recognize. Since the government does not require disclosing if food is GMO, it is becoming the norm in our society. It is important to be proactive about our health and organic foods are a great place to start.
Finding Healthy Foods in Whittier
If you look around town you will see that there is a sprinkling of markets and restaurants that are using organics. Some local eateries that serve organics are the New Fenix 5-4, Il Bella Cafe, and the deli at Herbies Market. Whittier markets that carry organic produce include Herbie's Market, and you can find a small selection at the Trader Joe's and big chain markets. For the most diversified selection of locally grown organics, shop at the Farmers Market on Friday mornings (8:30 AM to 1:00 PM) at Bright and Philadelphia in Uptown Whittier.
Buy Organic
One way we can be sure our food is healthy is to buy organic. We need to be advocates for our health so we can live a healthy lifestyle. Dr. David Katz of the Yale University School of Medicine tells us that "This may be the first generation of children to not outlive their parents." So eat healthy, live healthy, and you will have more energy, live longer and feel great.
The latest in Health
If you want to learn more about your food, go see the documentary “Food Inc.” which is currently playing at Laemmle Playhouse 7 in Pasadena. If you miss this informative movie, look for it on DVD. If you are interested in learning more about health and vitality you can talk to Personal Wellness Coach Rene Hader at 800-485-9047. You may remember her from the Cafe Rene Restaurant in Uptown, which closed after the Whittier Narrows Earthquake of Oct 1, 1987.
Eating healthy is another good reason to Shop Whittier.Story and Photography by Rick EliasTo comment on this story and add your views, visit our Community Blog!
All images are Copyright Elias Photography except for the FOOD, inc. movie poster which is used for editorial purposes.
