We are told when we are young to eat more fruits and vegetables. They are packed full of vitamins and minerals. What we are not told is they are also packed with toxic chemicals. These pesticides are used to kill bugs, fungi, weeds, rodents and other pests. A typical American is exposed to 10 to 13 pesticide residues each day from food, beverages, and drinking water. Although most of these levels are low, some pose a serious threat to us, especially when we are vulnerable. Pregnancy and small children are particularly at risk. The evidence grows daily on the destructive effects of these chemicals. Disorders including:
- Immune system suppression
- Nervous system disorders
- Breast and other types of cancer
- Reproductive damage
Many pesticides have been banded by the United States, but are still used in other countries. The 2 most pervasive is DDE and Dieldrin. These chemicals are very toxic and have been banned in the US since 1970’s. Unfortunately, they are still found in foods today from foods that are shipped from other countries.
The movement toward Organic foods is starting to catch on. The question is, “Are they safer?” The answer is yes. There are a dozen pesticides that are approved for use on organic food. Examples include spinosad, sulfur, copper fungicides, oils, several botanicals, Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), soaps, certain microbial pesticides, and pheromones. These pesticides are considerable saver than the non organic counter parts.
Buying organic vegetable are slightly more expense. You do not have to buy all vegetable is an organic state. Fruits and vegetables have a different absorption rate. The following tend to have a higher absorption rate and should always be purchased organically.
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Peaches
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Pears
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Green Beans
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Apples
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Squash
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Strawberries
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Raspberries
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Spinach
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Potatoes
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Tomatoes
The following fruits and vegetables tend to have fewer pesticides in them:
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Pineapples
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Mangoes
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Avocado
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Bananas
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Cauliflower
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Watermelon
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Kiwi Fruit
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Brussels Sprouts
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Eggplant
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Blueberries
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Radishes
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Grapefruit
Even with washing and peeling, you cannot get rid of pesticides in your fruits and vegetables. Buying organic can be expensive, but the way I look at it is I can not put a price on my health. Pay a little more now, or pay a lot more later. There is a handle guide that has been made that shows the fruits and vegetables that are best to buy organic. You can download it here. As always. Have a GREAT day!
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