POTSDAM -- Shoppers interested in healthy alternatives to the everyday meal can visit "Downtown Nutrition," located in the Aubuchon Mall, 63 Market St., behind Harris Medical Center off Depot Street.

Owned and operated by Rachel Lucid, the store will carry health and protein shakes that she says can be used for meal replacements or a healthy snack.

"I'm really hoping to get a healthy alternative into the area for the busy day to day life of Potsdam," she said.

Lucid said her story is open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday to ensure customers can stop in regardless of their schedules.

"I carry stock in the shop so customers can come in and take home products without having to wait for it to ship," she said.

Aside from heath shakes, Lucid said her story will also supply vitamins, shampoo, weightlifting and workout equipment and "other daily essentials."

Lucid's interest in starting the shop stemmed from a lack of local options for eating and living healthy.

"I got the idea for my shop after years of looking around for a place that's quick but good for you also," she said. "It's almost impossible to find a "healthy" meal around here without having to make it yourself."

Lucid said she is the only employee at "Downtown Nutrition."

"I'm really hoping that this will make a difference in Potsdam, that people will get active and learn how to eat and exercise the right way for a better way of living."

Lucid says she would eventually like to have trainers and health professionals hold classes and informational meetings at the store.