Getting Healthy in Ruston, LA

Written by Tori Ward, Marketing/PR Assistant

The start of the new year often brings a long list of resolutions for most. Get organized, volunteer more, pay off debt, travel more, learn a new language....the list can get endless. One of the most common resolutions out there is to be healthier, whether that entails eating better, exercising more or both.

With so many incredible restaurants here in Ruston, we totally understand how tempting it can be to lose sight of your resolution to eat healthier. So if you're serious about keeping this resolution, here are just a few local spots that might make sticking to your health goals a little easier.

Gibson's Natural Grocer

Gibson's Natural Grocer
Photo via facebook.com/gibsonsnatural 

This small grocery is a perfect spot to find all the essentials to healthy eating and living. With an incredible selection of fresh produce, as well as aisles upon aisles of dry goods, Gibson's is a great place to visit to stock up on healthy foods. And if you're a snack lover, they've got your covered. You can pick from dozens of healthy snacks and drinks that are perfect when you're on the go. 

Additionally, Gibson's offers supplements to help maintain your body's overall health. And did we mention that their staff is super friendly, knowledgeable and helpful? Definitely seek out the help of Gibson's employees if you have questions!

Gibson's also goes above and beyond to bring health information and advice to the community. They've hosted a documentary showing, a juicing demonstration and other various workshops with professional speakers. Check out their website to see upcoming events, and make sure you give them a visit when you're in the area. 

Produce at Gibson's Natural Grocer
Photo via facebook.com/gibsonsnatural

Supplements available at Gibson's Natural Grocer
Photo via facebook.com/gibsonsnatural

Better Living Market

Better Living Market
Photo via facebook.com/betterlivingmarket

Better Living Market opened in Ruston just a few months ago and has already made a great impact on the local community. With a focus on all-around healthy living, this market is a wonderful place to visit for fresh produce, local meat, dry and refrigerated goods, and so many more items to get you on track to a healthier life. 

Aside from carrying produce and healthy food items, they also have a wide selection of supplements, essential oils, medicinal teas, and books to help you maintain overall health. Better Living also supports other local businesses by carrying locally-made honey, soaps and candles. 

Need some advice on starting your journey to health? Better Living has an in-house nutritionist who is in the market multiple times a week and is more than happy to answer your questions and give you advice. Next time you're in the area, stop by and let this incredible staff suggest some healthy options that are right for you!

Supplements and more available at Better Living Market
Photo via facebook.com/betterlivingmarket

Local meat that can be found at Better Living Market
Photo via facebook.com/betterlivingmarket

Rosemary's Kitchen

Fresh grilled shrimp salad at Rosemary's Kitchen
Photo via facebook.com/Rosemarys-Kitchen

Rosemary’s Kitchen is not your typical eatery. Along with a menu that changes weekly, they have a grocery area in the front of the restaurant that carries organic and local items, as well as an organic juice bar. While Rosemary's typically offers a mix of hearty and lighter dishes, the kitchen focuses on fresh and healthy meals. Some recurring favorites are the stuffed bell peppers, various grilled paninis, and their homemade soups.

Rosemary’s Kitchen prides itself on the use of fresh ingredients, and you can tell just by looking at the food how incredibly fresh all of the ingredients are. Not to mention they use local milk, meat and other products when possible. Find this week’s simply fresh menu here.

As we mentioned before, Rosemary’s Kitchen has a great little grocery located inside the restaurant that has tons of local goodies as well as a cooler stocked with homemade items, to-go meals and more. They also carry various organic brands and items in their grocery. So if you're looking for a fresh and delicious lunch, a healthy meal to-go or a light snack, visit Rosemary's Kitchen on Bonner Street!

Grocery inside Rosemary's Kitchen

Grocery items inside Rosemary's Kitchen
Photo via facebook.com/Rosemarys-Kitchen

We hope you find these suggestions helpful as you stick to your health goals in 2016! If you have any questions about these healthy hot spots or any other local places in Ruston, comment and let us know! 

Tori Ward is a proud Louisiana native, born and raised in Shreveport, La. She is a Louisiana State University alumna and has a passion for all things PR. Tori is an avid movie watcher, coffee fanatic and lover of the outdoors. She is currently attending Louisiana Tech to pursue a master’s degree in business administration.