ORGANIC FOOD – WHAT’S THE BIG DEAL?

Is organic food really better for you?

If you are trying to eat healthier, you know that means more fruits and vegetables and more whole foods, whole grains and clean, lean protein. But does it warrant the cost to buy organic?

WATCH THIS VIDEO about a family’s journey to organic:

This has been a topic of discussion for a lot of people over the last couple years. Just because it says organic doesn’t necessarily mean it’s healthy. There are a lot of processed foods that would not be considered good like organic refined sugar. I believe organic is safer, possibly more nutritious, and often better tasting than non-organic food. They also say organic production is better for the environment and kinder to animals.

The real issue is whether these small doses of pesticides and chemicals, over years and decades, might add up to an increased health risk down the line. Are you willing to be the guinea pig and find out whether these chemical cocktails are having a negative effect on our body systems?

So Prove It!

Think about a strawberry or any fruit you consume the skin of. If it’s sprayed, it is like a little pesticide sponge. You are eating everything the fruit was sprayed with. This includes raspberries, blueberries, cherries, etc. You are eating cancer causing chemicals.

Researchers at Washington State University found that when a strawberry plant gets to grow without persistent pesticides – it produces certain phytochemicals to help do its own pest control. And new studies are finding that those chemicals may enhance the nutritional profile of the plant.

Study of Organic Crops Finds Fewer Pesticides and More Antioxidants

Adding fuel to the debates over the merits of organic food, a comprehensive review of earlier studies found substantially higher levels of antioxidants and lower levels of pesticides in organic fruits, vegetables and grains compared with conventionally grown produce…
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Organic foods are more nutritious, according to review of 343 studies

“The first and foremost message is people need to eat more fruits and vegetables,” Benbrook said…
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Clear differences between organic and non-organic food, study finds

Organic food has more of the antioxidant compounds linked to better health and lower levels of toxic metals and pesticides, according to the most comprehensive scientific analysis to date…
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Are Organic Vegetables More Nutritious After All?

There may never be an end to arguments over whether organic food is more nutritious. But a new study is the most ambitious attempt so far to resolve the issue — and it concludes that organic fruit and vegetables offer a key benefit…
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Also listen to Dr. Benbrook discuss the paper on NPR.

 

It’s always best to make an informed decision for your family. For me, it is a no brainer. But for many, it is just a lack of education. Hopefully these articles will help you decide what’s best for your family. Obviously a garden in the back yard is the best solution, but not always possible. I’ve enjoyed my little herb garden with tomatoes and lettuce in a small area in my back yard. The more you know, the more you grow.

Here’s to healthy eating!

Laura