Those looking to adopt a healthy eating plan are smart to explore the benefits of organic foods. In recent years, the organic food movement has gained popularity as research regarding the dangers of eating commercially produced food has been widely promoted and access to organic foods has become more widespread. However, many people still do not understand what the word “organic” really means and they wonder if the higher price tag is really worth it.
Organic Foods are Chemical-free
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), there are approximately 87,000 chemicals used in commercial food production today. Pesticides, antibiotics and hormones are used to help keep crops pest-free and livestock “healthy.” However, the chemicals remain in the final food product and research shows that these chemicals pose serious health risks.
Health Risks Associated with Commercially Produced, Non-Organic Foods
According to the EPA, laboratory studies show that pesticides are linked to a number of serious health problems including cancer, birth defects, allergies and autoimmune disorders and long-term exposure can even lead to neurological or endocrine damage. Several studies have indicated that ingesting the hormones found in commercially produced foods can disrupt normal hormonal activity in the body and the increase of antibiotic use in food production is contributing to the growing problem of antibiotic resistance.
A Healthy Eating Plan Should Include Plenty of Fresh Organic Foods
The Environmental Protection Agency has approved the use of pesticides within established limits; however, they admit that they have limited resources to carry out toxicity testing. While washing and peeling produce can help reduce the amount of residual chemicals, it doesn’t eliminate it. The best way to avoid ingesting chemical contaminants is to purchase organic foods whenever possible.
The USDA has developed the National Organics Program which sets the rigorous standards that must be met in order to label foods “organic.” According to the USDA, organic foods must be processed without using any synthetic pesticides or petroleum-based fertilizers. Additionally, no antibiotics or growth hormones can be used in raising organic livestock.
Organic foods should be a large part of any healthy eating plan. A diet high in fresh fruits and vegetables is recommended by nearly all health agencies worldwide. However, as research indicates, the residual chemicals found in commercially grown fruits and vegetables can cause unforeseen health consequences. Organic foods help reduce these health risks.
Many people still question whether the higher cost associated with organic foods is worth it. Keeping in mind the potential health risks, the extra grocery dollars appear well justified. However, to help reduce grocery expense when organic food shopping, focus on items that have been found to typically have a higher level of residual pesticides. For more information, read Organic Food Shopping: Focus on High Contamination Foods.
Christine Scivicque - Chrissy has been a passionate student of personal development for over 15 years. With a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration ...
