Breathe Magazine

I was recently given a copy of Green Babies, Sage Moms as a baby gift.

I’d heard great things about this book, and while I was turned off by the Anne Geddes-esque infant posing as a pea pod on the cover, I delved further… and am glad that I did. Ironically, I read the chapter called “You Are What You Eat — and So Is Your Baby” while gulping down a chemically enhanced Caffeine-Free Coca-Cola, but that doesn’t mean that I don’t have green goals when it comes to raising my child.

At first, I was overwhelmed (could I ever give up my Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer?), but like a good “ultimate guide” should, they give plenty of options for how you can incorporate eco-friendly methods and products into your lifestyle, whether you’re gung-ho green or just looking to add an organic splash here and there. At the end of each chapter, a section called “Green at a Glance” recaps with actions you can take categorized under three levels of green goodness.

In addition to author Lynda Fassa’s wise words, you’ll find tips from “Green Gurus” such as Barbara Haumann of The Organic Trade Association, and Jason Graham-Nye, owner of gDiapers (if you’re a new or expecting mom and haven’t heard about this cloth/disposable hybrid, it’s a pretty cool concept).

Even if you adopt just a few ideas from this book, you’re making a difference not just for the environment, but for the health of your baby. While I can’t ever give up caffeine, I can make sure that I choose organic when it comes to produce items from their “Dirty Dozen” list. And while organic baby clothing is pricey, you really can feel the difference, so I’m keeping my eye out for online sales.

You can take your first green step before even reading this book — ask a friend to “recycle” their copy by passing it on to you!