Living a healthy, organic lifestyle often requires a commitment and attention to detail in order to overcome sometimes confusing labeling and packaging. Usually, the term "organic" means a product has been grown in organic conditions, without harsh chemicals, hormones, pesticides, synthetic fertilizers or other unnatural additives or preservatives. Organic foods and items usually are presented with minimal processing and packaging. Sometimes, organic advocates demand that the foods and products they buy aren't tested on animals or with environmentally unfriendly materials.
Read Labels
Staying healthy with organic foods and other products, such as beauty aids, soaps and shampoos, often requires more effort than simply choosing packaging that claims a product is organic. The U.S. Department of Agriculture imposes rules defining the term "organic" on many agricultural products that seek to claim that marketing advantage. Always read product labels completely to see where your product was grown or manufactured and if it meets USDA organic guidelines.
Avoid Toxins
Some products may be manufactured with organically grown fruits, vegetables or herbs, but may be contaminated with toxins used or added during manufacturing, processing or packaging. Some common toxins include polycarbonates, bisphenols, and perfluorochemicals. Heat from a dishwasher or microwave oven can release toxic chemicals contained in many plastics, so avoid microwaving plastics. Always wash them by hand or on your dishwasher's top shelf. Prepare organic foods in glass containers whenever possible.
Grow Your Own
To be sure you're eating organic foods and using organic personal care products, always buy your food and meat from a trusted, certified organic source. Avoid plastic-packaged foods and chemically preserved or genetically modified items. As an alternative, consider growing your own fresh fruits, vegetables and herbs. Choose traditional methods of companion planting and crop succession, rotation and management to repel pests, quell weeds and reduce disease in the field or garden. Avoid chemical pesticides, fungicides and herbicides.
