Making the switch to organic eating may seem like an overwhelming transition, but it's really not all that bad or difficult if you take the right steps. We all have to start somewhere and we have to start making the transitions where it counts the MOST. And that's in your FRESH Produce!
I hope you watched the you tube video I posted earlier today about genetic modification to our foods. Most of the produce that you eat is either drenched in pesticides and/or genetically altered in some way. The purpose of the genetic modification is intended to make produce resistant to things like pesticides or extreme weather. But when you consume these fruits and vegetables, you are putting foreign invaders in your body that your immune system doesn't recognize and may be attacking on a daily basis. I honestly believe a lot of this is linked to chronic illnesses and immune problems such as allergies. I also believe they are covered in endocrine disruptors that screw with your hormones, mess with your metabolism, and keep you fat. I am not a doctor though. Again, I am only speculating. Regardless, there is no real understanding of the long term impact this has on health. All we know is what we see...and what we see is a rise in countless numbers of cancers and diseases and disorders that were much less prevalent 20 yrs ago. I'll let you guys research it more. And again...if you'd just spend an hour or so of your life watching The Future Of Food, you have much deeper insight into what's going on with the food you are consuming on a regular basis.
Anyway, I hope you haven't gone to the grocery store yet because I really want you all to explore the organic section of the produce aisle. What's on your produce list? Apples, Potatoes, Grapes, Broccoli? Look for the items you usually purchase and buy them organic instead. That's all you have to do! If your grocery store doesn't have it...then look for another store. It shouldn't be too hard to find. And if what you're looking for IS too hard to find then it probably isn't in season and you just need to let it go until next summer.
Unfortunately Farmers Markets are Closing this time of year, but when they open back up (April usually) you should make a weekly visit and just get your produce from there. Another great option for getting fresh organic produce is to order it from local farmers. When I was in WA, we got a box full of fresh fruits and vegetables from Full Circle Farms every week. You can go in and order what you want or just be surprised by what they send you. It's a great way to be introduced to produce you would otherwise never try. I ate so many crazy fruits and vegetables over the summer. Anyone ever had a blood orange? When else would I ever try one of these?!
I don't think eating organic produce impacts our budget too much. I'm not sure. It's been so long since I've bought regular, but if you are REALLY tight on money then refer back to the Dirty Dozen. This is the produce that is highest on the pesticides levels and here it is for you.
12. Kale
Click on the name of the produce to find out more about what their pesticide content is. It'll blow your mind. Neurotoxins. Reproductive Toxins. And all kinds of other yummy things you want your kids to eat every day. Mmmmm.
Here's the cheat sheet again
However, I'm not so sure about the clean 15. For instance Corn is one of the most genetically modified foods, But again...you have to start somewhere.
Let me know how it goes!
A great website to refer to is http://www.whatsonmyfood.org/ if you are ever curious about What's On Your Food.
Oh and don't forget to plan two or more super food meals for the week! Let's start expanding our horizons and our tastebuds!!!
No comments:
Post a Comment