The Importance of Organic Foods

This video shows with great simplicity the impact pesticides and chemicals can have on our plants.

Pesticides are toxins that can be damaging to the nervous system, disrupt hormone function, and have been linked to the development of certain cancers. To prevent these effects you can try to include more organic foods in your diet.

The Environmental Working Group has compiled a Shoppers Guide to Pesticides (www.ewg.org/foodnews). The Clean 15 are the least contaminated crops. If you are budget conscious, these are foods you may choose to buy non-organic.

The Dirty Dozen are the most contaminated crops. Either choose to buy these foods organic, or avoid eating them. By switching to organic (especially the Dirty Dozen), or just eating from the Clean 15 you can create a significant reduction in your absorption of pesticides.

To learn more about dietary choices and other methods to support detoxification contact Penticton Naturopathic Clinic today.

DIRTY DOZEN (buy organic)

Apples                       Celery                                        Strawberries                          Peaches

Spinach                     Nectarines (imported)           Grapes (imported)               Lettuce

Bell peppers             Potatoes                                    Blueberries (domestic)        Kale

CLEAN 15 (lower in pesticide)

Onions                                                 Pineapple                                             Avocado

Mangoes                                             Asparagus (in season)                      Eggplant

Sweet potatoes                                   Mushrooms                                        Corn (in season)

Watermelon (in season)                   Cantaloupe (domestic)                     Grapefruit

Sweet peas                                          Cabbage                                             Kiwi