Optimum Wellness

(CBS) Millions of health minded individuals choose organic food as part of an overall healthy diet and lifestyle. The organic movement is no longer limited to the California Coast or any other stereotyped geographic or demographic. It has moved from neighborhood co-ops to big box stores. Still many people argue that buying organic isn't worth the perceived extra effort and/or additional cost. We disagree.

Research has shown that organically grown fruits and vegetables are higher in vitamins and trace minerals. In terms of the environment, food grown organically also reduces greenhouse pollution. Chemical fertilizers used in conventional farming can generate tons of greenhouse pollution. Pesticide residues that remain on fruits and vegetables have been linked to potentially damaging neurological effects in humans.

Certified organic or USDA organic means that the food or product is certified (by an Independent Third Party certifier) to be 95% to 100% organic. Synthetic pesticides, animal drugs, sewage sludge, irradiation, genetically modified organisms or seeds and chemical fertilizers are forbidden. If the food is labeled "natural" it could mean anything, as this labeling is not subject to the same regulations as "organic."

In order to be labeled "organic", meat, poultry, eggs, and dairy products must come from animals that are given no antibiotics or growth hormones. Their feed source must also be organic.

Organics have also moved beyond the dinner table to the body, bed, and bath, literally. Clothing, towels, and sheets made with organically grown cotton are also making their way into the mainstream. We need to be aware that even though the cotton (or hemp) itself may be organic, the fabric may still be treated with synthetic chemicals, dyes and finishes that contain heavy metals or toxic substances. This means that organic or not, we should always give our clothes a good wash before we wear them. It also means we should read further on the labels for a full description of the clothing or linen piece and the manufacturer.

Politically speaking, the subject of organics runs deeper than deep, and we are not getting into that here. What we will say is that the Environmental Working group did a major study where they examined pesticide residues of the most common conventionally grown fruits and vegetables. They came up with a ranking of pesticide residues (in fruits and vegetables) from greatest to least, and here we give you the top twenty (ranking highest in pesticide exposure). These would be the fruits and veggies that may be worth buying organic.

1 (worst) Peaches
2 Apples
3 Sweet Bell Peppers
4 Celery
5 Nectarines
6 Strawberries
7 Cherries
8 Lettuce
9 Grapes - Imported
10 Pears
11 Spinach
12 Potatoes
13 Carrots
14 Green Beans
15 Hot Peppers
16 Cucumbers
17 Raspberries
18 Plums
19 Oranges
20 Grapes - Domestic

Remember, although grapes appear to be last on this list, they still ranked rather high in general. We recommend doing what you can to purchase at least the top 10 to 15 organically when possible. Otherwise, using a good fruit and vegetable wash and peeling the skins may help reduce your risk of exposure.

When it comes to dairy products, look for the USDA organic seal in addition to a statement that says the milk and dairy cows used are "hormone-free." The same holds true for organic meat products.

Choosing organic is good for our bodies and the planet.

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