L.A.'s top health food stores

This small market and café built in Canoga Park in 1970 is now home to the incredibly popular Vegenaise products found in supermarkets all across the county. Follow Your Heart has been a staple in Los Angeles for more than 50 years, and is still a destination to find healthy products and produce, as well as their own delicious line of vegan sauces, cheeses, spreads and dips. People come from all over the city (and county!) for a meal at the colorful café, a relaxing place where you can dine on tasty vegan or vegetarian dishes.

A staple for mid-city grocery shopping, this organic supermarket sells a range of produce, prepared foods, snacks, natural remedies, cosmetics and toiletries. If you're loyal to a particular health food, vegan or gluten-free brand, chances are good Erewhon carries it—along with five other brands you've never heard of. The excellent food counters feature salads, soups, sushi, deli items, fresh juices and coffee that entice everyone from the raw foodist to the curious carnivore. If you live further West, visit the market's other location in Venice.

With a juice bar and deli counter, One Life Natural Foods has all your grocery shopping needs covered and then some. Head there for organic food and produce, herbs, vitamins and supplements, body care items and more, from trusted brands as well as small, locally-owned businesses. The deli is an especially yummy draw, with high-quality cold cuts in addition to tofu and vegan options.

This Eagle Rock health food market provides plenty of produce and products; in addition to the typical health market fare of organic, vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free, Organix specializes in low glycemic and diabetic-safe foods. But it's the vegan deli that really sets this place apart from all other markets; the plant-based burgers, burritos and tacos are all made from scratch and are so popular that the wait can be up to 45 minutes.

Co+opportunity, a Santa Monica favorite since 1974, is a member-owned and member-run market that sells organic and locally-grown produce. They also have an expansive beauty and wellness section that sells a variety of products ranging from makeup and hair care to protein powders, herbal supplements and more. Co+opportunity is open to the public and surely a one-stop shop for any grocery necessities. Interested in owning a piece of the action? Shares are still available, and a new location is opening in Culver City.

This mini market in DTLA turns the oxymoron of healthy convenience store into a reality. Om Nom Organics sells an array of healthy and organic products, and also offers many options for meals on the go, such as parfaits, sandwiches, salads, smoothies and more, all of which are made in their local kitchen. Om nom makes healthy food for everyone, offering options for meat-lovers, plant-based foodies, gluten-free eaters, smoothie enthusiasts, paleo purists and kids.

On the southeast side of the Downtown Arts District resides sparkling artisan grocery store, Urban Radish. With a bright and inviting exterior reminiscent of an oversized greenhouse, the shop almost begs you to peek inside, where you'll find a full-range market of organic produce, fresh grass-fed meats, cheeses, avocado oil and custom brewed coffee. Pair your newly acquired olives and block of Manteca cheese with a bottle of wine from their curated collection to enjoy on the front patio.

When Lassens first opened its doors in early '70s, the shop was a family-owned operation with the goal of bringing health foods to their community. It has since grown to over 10 locations in Southern California, but has maintained its mission. In addition to an impressive grocery selection, Lassens maintains a wellness section of vitamins, tinctures, a well-curated bulk section and fresh prepared foods and juices made daily. In addition to their Los Feliz location, Lassens also has L.A. shops in Echo Park and Miracle Mile.

Short for "Nutrition 101," N101 is a haven for fitness junkies. The warhouse is filled with rows and rows of vitamins, herbs, skincare products and sports nutrition and health supplements. Whether you're looking for a protein-packed chocolate chip cookie, uncured bacon bar, pink lemonade pre-workout enhancer, or something simple and wholesome to wash your hair with, N101 has got you covered. Their knowledgable staff is equipped to answer any question and help you find the best product for your needs.

Head to Rainbow Acres, which has been open since 1981, for organic produce, healthy food items or for a delicious item off the lunch menu that changes daily (hello, acai bowls!). You can also create your own juice, smoothie or sandwich at the bar. Keep an eye out for talks and demos happening regularly on the grocery floor.