Choosing an organic diet shows your commitment to health. The news and media has an overwhelming flood of claims that organic, whole foods are the healthier way to eat. A large number of people have jumped on the organic wave for numerous reasons, including disease prevention, treatment for illnesses, or overall health and wellness.
Significance
Chemicals in the food supply, such as pesticides, antibiotics and hormones are linked to a variety of health risks, including certain types of cancers and hormonal disruption. Choosing organic options reduces your exposure to these chemicals. It is also possible that higher levels of nutrients are obtained from organic foods.
Foods
The EPA conducted studies that linked pesticides to various types of cancer and nervous system disorders. Grains full of these pesticides produce the breads and cereals you eat. Produce has these same health implications in addition to the increased risk of bacterial infection due to mass marketing. There is a list of produce available that guides you in making purchases. Antibiotics in meats are linked to the epidemic of antibiotic-resistant bacteria that are being seen in the medical community. The Huffington Post reported the FDA's statement released showing health risk posed due to antibiotics in the meat supply. Hormones in the meat supply are also linked to hormone and endocrine imbalances in the body.
Benefits
Organic choices may decrease the risk of chemicals causing disease in the body. Organic foods have also been found to have higher levels of nutrients than their commercial counterparts including antioxidants, according to Dr. Andrew Weil. Getting your needed nutrition from food each day is easier when the foods you consume are organic.
Considerations
Organic foods cost considerably more than their counterparts, making it difficult for some to afford the switch. It's also less convenient to shop for organic foods. Markets and health food stores have stocked more choices, but some organic fruits and vegetables are harder to find.
Expert Insights
Be selective in the choices you make for organic foods. Using The Environmental Working Group's list for The Dirty Dozen, and The Clean Fifteen, will provide guidance in making the choices for organic foods, staying in your shopping budget and eating the healthiest diet possible (see Resources).
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