5 Foods That Should Always Be Bought Organic
7 minute read
Introduction
In a world filled with options, making the right choices for our health and the planet is paramount. Organic foods offer numerous benefits, from being more nutritious to reducing exposure to harmful pesticides. Today, we will explore five foods that should always be bought organic. But why should we buy organic in the first place?
Research indicates that organic fruits and vegetables carry a significantly higher nutritional value compared to their conventionally grown counterparts. A study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that organic tomatoes consistently possessed about 40% higher levels of beneficial compounds like flavonoids, linked to reduced rates of cardiovascular disease and certain cancers. In another comprehensive study, research published in the British Journal of Nutrition analyzed 343 peer-reviewed publications and found that organic crops, on the whole, have higher concentrations of antioxidants, lower levels of toxic metals, and less frequent pesticide residues. These studies underscore the importance of selecting organic produce, not just for our individual health, but also for the sustainability of our planet.
- Berries
Organic berries are a powerhouse of nutrients packed with antioxidants and vitamins. They are also an excellent source of fiber. However, they spoil very easily, as anyone who has thrown a $10 box of strawberries out because it got moldy very quickly knows what I mean. That is why berries are often sprayed with a lot of pesticides. No wonder they end up at the top of the Dirty Dozen list of foods as per the Environmental Working Group. By choosing organic, you can avoid exposing yourself to the harmful effects of conventional berries, which are often treated with pesticides that can pose risks to your health.
For those of you who are not aware, The Environmental Working Group's (EWG) Dirty Dozen list is a yearly report that identifies the fruits and vegetables most contaminated with pesticides. The list is generated from thousands of samples taken by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Food and Drug Administration. Their analysis of these samples shows that even after washing, many fruits and vegetables harbor a significant amount of pesticide residues. As such, the Dirty Dozen list serves as a practical guide for consumers who want to limit their exposure to these harmful substances. By opting for organic versions of these fruits and vegetables, consumers can significantly reduce their intake of pesticides.
- Greens (spinach, kale)
Greens, such as spinach and kale, are powerhouses of nutrition. They're packed with essential vitamins and minerals that our bodies need to function optimally. Spinach is rich in iron, which plays a critical role in the production of red blood cells, and vitamin K, which is crucial for bone health. Furthermore, it's an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and keeps you feeling full longer, assisting in weight management. On the other hand, kale is a superfood that is high in antioxidants, which help combat oxidative damage in the body. It's also an excellent source of Vitamin C, even surpassing oranges in its content.
When it comes to greens, going organic is a wise decision. Organic greens offer higher nutritional value and lower pesticide residue compared to their conventionally grown counterparts. By opting for organic spinach and kale, you can nourish your body while minimizing exposure to potentially harmful chemicals.
- Oat Products
Oats are certainly having a moment. Oatmeal for breakfast and oat milk in your coffee are just some ways they have found a comfortable place in our pantries. However, most people do not know that conventional oats contain a high amount of pesticides.
The story of oats and pesticides is one of concern and caution. In large-scale farming practices, a desiccant, often a potent herbicide, is routinely applied to oats crops just before harvest. This is done to dry out the plants, making harvest quicker and more efficient. However, this practice comes with a downside - the increased exposure of the oats to pesticides during a critical phase of their development. These pesticides can adhere to the oats through processing, ending up on your dining table.
In 2018, a groundbreaking study by the Environmental Working Group (EWG) spotlighted pesticide contamination in oat products. The study analyzed 45 samples of conventionally grown oat products and found glyphosate, a harmful weed-killing pesticide, in all but two. Studies have raised concerns about the health risks associated with these residue levels, including potential neurotoxic and carcinogenic effects. By choosing organic oats, you are selecting a product grown without these synthetic pesticides, safeguarding not just your health but also the health of our environment.
This is the same pesticide that the World Health Organization's cancer agency has labeled as a potential human carcinogen. The results were a wake-up call, underscoring the urgency of choosing organic oats to reduce exposure to these harmful substances. When you choose organic oat products, you're not only making a healthier choice for you and your family, but also standing up for farming practices that prioritize human health and environmental sustainability.
- Soy Products
Soybeans hold the title as the second-largest crop in terms of production in the United States, only surpassed by corn. Despite the vast amount of soy produced, many would be surprised to know that a considerable portion of the soybeans grown domestically are not intended for direct human consumption. Instead, they serve as a primary ingredient for animal feed and biofuels.
It's a common misconception that all the soy we consume comes from domestic fields since we grow so much of it. In fact, the organic soy in many products you find on your local supermarket shelves often has international origins. This is because the demand for organic soy outweighs the supply produced domestically.
Soy, in its many forms, is a versatile and nutritious addition to a balanced diet. As an excellent source of plant-based protein, it can bridge the nutritional gap for those who follow a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle. Foods like soy milk, edamame, tofu, and tempeh are not only delicious and versatile in cooking, but they are also high in essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. Consuming these foods can support good health and well-being. Soy products also contain isoflavones, a type of phytoestrogen, which has been linked to a reduced risk of certain health conditions. So next time you're at the grocery store, consider reaching for organic soy products. Not only will you be making a choice that's good for your health, but you'll also be supporting farming practices that care about our planet's health.
- Dairy Products
Numerous studies have supported the health benefits of consuming organic dairy products compared to conventional ones. One such study, published in the British Journal of Nutrition, highlighted that organic dairy products contain about 50% more beneficial omega-3 fatty acids than conventionally produced products. These fatty acids are essential for heart and brain health, and cannot be produced by the human body.
Conversely, conventional dairy products often come with hidden health risks. According to a study from the National Institutes of Health, conventionally produced dairy can contain residues of antibiotics and hormones, given to cows to increase milk production and treat diseases. Over time, consuming these residues could lead to antibiotic resistance in humans, a growing global health concern.
Organic dairy products provide a host of benefits. They come from cows that are raised on organic feed without the use of hormones or antibiotics. By opting for organic dairy, you can enjoy the wholesome goodness of milk, cheese, and yogurt while avoiding potential risks associated with antibiotics and hormones.
Conclusion
To prioritize your health and support a sustainable future, consider these five foods when buying organic. Berries, greens like spinach and kale, oat products, soy products, and dairy products offer numerous advantages over their conventional counterparts. By choosing organic, you're making a conscious decision to take charge of your health and contribute to a healthier planet. Let's embrace the organic movement and nourish ourselves with truly beneficial foods.
Disclaimer: The content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
