Get Fit Your Way: Using Organic Produce To Improve Your Health

The organic food industry is seeing a dramatic increase in popularity in recent years. Most grocery stores today have a section or two dedicated to organic produce and organic packaged goods. As the consumer, you no doubt have noticed that the branding of something as "organic" also comes with an increase in the price tag. On your journey to better health, is organic really all that it is hyped up to be? What are the advantages of eating organic and can it actually prevent cancer as some studies have seemed to imply?

What Qualifies a Food as Organic?

Organic means, among other things, being grown without the use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and radiation. Some organic foods also qualify as being non-GMO, or not genetically modified. 

Is Organic Better For You?

One benefit of organic produce is that it is actually more nutritionally dense than non-organic food. According to an article in Redbook magazine, in the absence of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, a plant has to work harder to boost its natural defences, which translates to higher antioxidant and vitamin levels. And a perhaps unintended result of higher antioxidants is that the food actually tastes better. This means that following a healthier eating program is more enjoyable, and what a great incentive for parents trying to get their kids to eat more fruits and veggies. Another plus is that organic is better for the environment, as well. Organic farming practices preserve the integrity of the soil and there is no water contamination from chemicals. 

Can Organic Foods Prevent Cancer?

Although less exposure to chemicals can only benefit your body, can it prevent cancer? Popular Science reported on a study that seemed to conclude that organic foods did indeed prevent the development of cancer. In this study published in the JAMA, it did show that there was a reduced risk of certain types of cancer, namely lymphoma and post-menopausal breast cancer. But since lifestyle factors also varied greatly among the study participants, it cannot be conclusively determined if organic foods do indeed prevent cancer. What was certain is that those persons who tend to choose organic foods, also typically have other healthy habits such as exercising regularly, not smoking, and eating more fruits and vegetables. So while organic foods may not prevent cancer, including them in your diet along with a healthy lifestyle can certainly decrease your chances of developing cancer.

How You Can Include Organic Produce with Healthier Lifestyle Habits

The following foods listed on Livestrong.com show that if they're non-organic, they have very high pesticide levels. Start on your organic journey by choosing organic when buying these items.

• Dairy - Organic dairy cows do not receive any antibiotics or growth hormones and since their feed is also organic, there is less chance of pesticide residue in milk products from these cows. 
• Apples and Grapes - One of the most popular fruits and snack foods for your children, organic is the way to go as these fruits rate high on the list for pesticides in produce. Don't forget to also choose organic when buying other apple and grape-based products such as juice, applesauce, and raisins.
• Tomatoes and Peppers  - Up to 69 different pesticides have been found on tomatoes and around 50 found on bell peppers. Typically, the skin is eaten and often eaten raw, therefore organic is the wise choice.
• Potatoes - This veggie has more pesticides per weight than others, and since it usually ends up being your kids' favourite, all the more reason to choose organic.

In addition to eating organic, you can improve your health by including healthier lifestyle habits. Spending less time on the couch and more time moving about will aid in weight management. Aiming to reduce your stress as well and taking time out for non-work related activities can bring enrichment to your life and help to achieve a healthier heart and mind. 

As you strive to make better food choices for you and your family, let us help simplify the process. With both fresh and packaged organic food products delivered right to your door, making the right choices have never been easier. See for yourself how easy it is to place your grocery orders online or via our app.