Organic foods are having a moment. While some people may believe it’s just a trend that will soon fade like every other food trend seems to do, this movement towards eating organically is backed by science and has benefits that many believe is the secret to living a healthy life. The organic food industry has grown immensely over the past several years – and with good reason. Organic foods are not only better for our body than non-organic (conventional) foods, but also better for the environment. When choosing between buying conventional or organic foods, there are several benefits of going organic.
Use of natural fertilizers as opposed to synthetic
Organically grown produce is grown with natural fertilizers, without any chemicals. Non-organic farming utilizes chemicals or synthetic mixtures that help increase growth rate in order to produce more in greater quantities. There are several potentially harmful side effects of consuming products that are grown with chemicals, including developmental problems, excessive stress on our organs (it’s especially bad for a pregnant woman), and even ADHD in children.
Hormone-Free
Conventional livestock are pumped with hormones to increase their growth at an abnormal rate and to protect the animals – often raised in crowded and dirty conditions – against illness. The hormones that are injected into animals are then in the food we eat and the milk we drink. These hormones have even been linked to increased rates of cancer and antibiotic resistance. Organic and grass-fed meat, on the other hand, treats animals humanely and prohibits the use of synthetic hormones, making it a safer and healthier option when buying meat or dairy.
Better for the environment
Choosing organically-produced food over conventional, non-organic food is not only better for your body, but it is also good for the environment. Rather than spraying herbicides to get rid of unwanted weeds, organic farming uses prevention methods such as crop rotation, hand and weeding to protect against weeds. The synthetic hormones that are used for produce runs into groundwater, which has been found in tap water, which is then consumed by humans. Organic farming even uses less energy than conventional farming methods.
Better for your body
It is believed that organic foods have more nutrients than non-organic food. The reason being that organic foods grow in healthy and organic dirt and are void of chemical-filled synthetic fertilizers, which is how non-organic crops get their nutrients, leading to nutrient-deficient produce.
Final verdict
Opting for organic is better for both your body and for the environment. By choosing organic foods, you are choosing to help your body by avoiding putting synthetic pesticides and chemicals into your body. While it may be not possible for everyone to switch to an all-organic diet, even making small strides by purchasing certain products organic will help you live a healthier life. If you can’t buy all-organic, start by buying the foods that you eat often or daily organic. The long-term benefits of eating organically are significant and will help you live a longer, healthier life.