The last decade has suddenly seen more additions to many aisles at the supermarket. Yes, we are talking about organic food. Health enthusiasts are indeed lapping up the goodness of organic foods and vegetables because these foods indeed have a number of health benefits that until recently laid latent. However, the benefits do not only positively affect health, but also benefit the farm and the farmer in many ways.
Organic food basically involves using no pesticides and chemical fertilizers to grow fruits and vegetables. This ensures that farmers, workers on the fields and neighbors are remain unexposed to harmful chemicals. It is great for the environment too as less fossil fuel is converted into fertilizers and healthier soil is maintained, which can sustain crops for the next generations that will follow.
When individuals consciously consume organic foods they are eating foods that are free of any pesticide residue. Some farmers use a host of very harmful chemicals to ensure that their fruits and vegetables look vibrant when they reach grocers, however the residues that remain can cause a number of fatalities when consumed by people, especially pregnant women. The effects of these chemicals may surface slowly, but they are sure to affect the system in harmful ways.
When making a conscious decision to shift to organic foods, you may have to compromise on a few things, because you will note when you walk into a supermarket, that organic varieties of produce are a little more expensive than their counterparts that have been grown using chemicals and pesticides.
However, if you sincerely want to switch to organic foods, the dirty dozen list can sure help. This list gives you a picture of twelve foods and ranks them according to the pesticide residue that they have. By adhering to this list, one can reduce exposure by almost 80% by simply switching to organic varieties of these foods.
The Dirty Dozen comprises of the following fruits and vegetables, in fact there have been two more additions to this list recently:
1. Apple
2. Celery
3. Sweet Bell peppers
4. Peaches
5. Strawberries
6. Nectarines
7. Grapes
8. Spinach
9. Lettuce
10. Cucumbers
11. Blueberries
12. Potatoes
13. Green Beans
14. Kale/Beans
Avoiding the dirty dozen can be tough, but simply switching to the organic varieties for these foods can indeed help make a great difference to your health. In fact you could make a few lifestyle changes, also save some money and switch to an overall healthy lifestyle, by going organic for the betterment of your health and the health of your family.
There is also a list that specifies which foods have the least amount of pesticide residue, also known as the Clean 15
1. Onions
2. Sweet Corn
3. Pineapples
4. Avocado
5. Cabbage
6. Sweet Peas
7. Asparagus
8. Mangoes
9. Eggplant
10. Kiwi
11. Cantaloupe
12. Sweet Potatoes
13. Grapefruit
14. Watermelon
15. Mushrooms
Switching to organic produce can change your life and you will happier and healthier. You may not feel the changes instantly but you will be thankful in the long run. A holistic nutritionist can help you understand the benefits of organic foods better and recommend ways in which you can make holistic healthy living a part of your life. So, if you wish to stay healthy – Go Organic.
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