Treat Your Body and Soul at 5 Top Natural Food Markets in Austin

Whether you've been following a healthy diet for years or you've made a New Year's resolution to eat better, Austin has an incredible assortment of natural food markets where you can find whatever you need. Here are some of the favorites located not too far from Springs at Lakeline and Springs at Round Rock apartment communities.

Even the name of this market conjures up images of healthy food. Wheatsville Co-op, an eight-time winner of "Best Neighborhood Grocery" as voted by Austin Chronicle readers, is a locally-sourced and community-supported store. For $70 you can become one of the 19,000+ owners who participate "democratically and financially," but the market is open to non-members with no surcharge. The co-op recently opened a second location at 4001 S Lamar Blvd, and both stores are open 7:30 a.m. until 11 p.m. seven days a week.

Royal Blue is a traditional corner store with a contemporary flair. While the stores share an overall concept, the selection at each location is designed to accommodate the tastes of its specific neighborhood. In addition to organic foods, craft beers and gourmet items, Royal Blue has a deli counter serving freshly-made soups, sandwiches and salads. The migas breakfast tacos are a customer favorite. All locations are open daily from 7 a.m. until midnight.

Sprouts' goal is to provide "healthy living for less." The store features a full selection of top-quality foods such as organic produce, handmade burgers and sausages, and gourmet cheeses along with fresh baked goods and ready-to-eat meals. Complete your healthy living with natural, cruelty-free products from their Body Care department. Sprouts has two additional locations, and hours at all three are 7 a.m. until 10 p.m. daily.

in.gredients bills itself as "the unconventional neighborhood grocery," starting with its location inside a charming house. The store was the first zero-waste grocery in the country, producing an average of five pounds of waste in a month compared to the almost seven pounds produced by an individual per day. With its on-site cafe, kids' playground and live music events, in.gredients serves as a lively community gathering spot. Hours are 9 a.m. until 10 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 10 a.m. until 10 p.m. Sunday.

The appropriately named Rabbit Food Grocery is a 100 percent vegan market. They offer a number of alternatives to meat, dairy and eggs along with vegan sweets, snacks and baking ingredients. You'll also find clothing, body care products and other items appropriate for a vegan lifestyle. Do you share your Springs luxury apartment home with a dog or cat? With food and treats from Rabbit Food, they can eat vegan as well. The store is open 11 a.m. until 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon until 5 p.m. Sunday.

Did we miss your favorite natural food market? Let us know in the comments!