Photo by Artur Rutkowski on Unsplash
Did you know that nearly 70% of the non-organic fresh produce sold in the US contains residues of potentially harmful chemical pesticides*. The US allows approximately 10,000 chemicals to be used in and on our food, many of these approved long ago, before we had evidence about long term exposure.
Folks, we do not know what’s on our food and you need to be your own advocate! I realize that organic fruits & vegetables cost more; however, you do not need to buy everything organic (kind of my utopia lol). There are lists which are updated annually of the ‘dirty dozen’ , the 12 most pesticide ridden produce. Please consider this list when shopping for produce your family will consume.
Pesticides are thought to be linked to so many health conditions such as cancer, birth defects, cognitive disorders, skin conditions, endocrine disruptors and many more. We should absolutely be eating as many fruits & vegetables as possible (you will get tired of hearing me say that!) but pay a little more to minimize the consumption of these potentially toxic carcinogens.
Another recommendation is to use Fit. This is an organic produce wash which is all natural and claims to remove up to 98% of the chemicals and wax on the surface of the produce. Keep in mind though, any chemicals applied during the growing process are in the food. So buying organic is still the best way to avoid unnecessary consumption.
I realize this can seem like a daunting task, but just like anything, make small changes and you will continue to move in the right direction. If you need some moral support, shopping guidance, menu help or further data, reach out to me!
In good health,
Jackie
@orgeontilth @drweil #washyourveggies #dirtydozen #eatorganic
*according to the group ewg.org