5 Reasons Why Eating Organic is Beneficial

Whether you want to lose weight or kick your bad eating habits, our society has grown more aware of the nutritional benefits to eating healthy and organic. Thankfully, many consumers are realizing that the quality of food we eat is vital to our health and well-being, which has brought about the debate whether or not to switch to organic.

Despite the switch, dangerous health challenges continue to rise in number, such as diabetes, heart disease, cancer and more. So why is this still happening? Many reasons include lack of knowledge about whole foods versus processed foods, the conventionality and ease of eating fast food or cheaper food, and even the simple lack of nutrients from green-harvested or pesticide-laden foods. Some may think people eat organically only to lose weight, when it should really be an overall lifestyle change.

While it seems that the main reasons some choose to not eat organic is either the higher price or simple ignorance about the benefits, understanding the health concerns may become a determining factor for you. To learn more about why organic is a better choice, here are 5 reasons that may help you decide for yourself.

1. Pesticides
   Many foods, especially produce and fruits, are loaded with pesticides. However, organic foods do not use toxic pesticides, which results in more antioxidants that are helpful in reducing free radicals. Pesticides can cause several health issues such as headaches, birth defects, cancer and more.
2. Food Additives
   Organic foods do not allow for additives, such as artificial sweeteners, high fructose corn syrup, and other chemicals, such as flavoring and coloring.
3. Environmentally Friendly
   Organic foods are farmed in ways that have a standard of decreasing pollution and naturally fertilizing soil. Organic farming also promotes conservation of water.
4. Genetically Engineered Ingredients 
   Many foods have genetically engineered proteins or ingredients. Organic foods do not allow for this, and are natural and safe.
5. Animal and Community Wellness
   Organic manufacturers often support locals with reasonable price for labor, as well as having a higher standard for animal treatment, which usually is shown by the “cruelty-free” labels we see on foods.

The food products to be most concerned about choosing organic would be the ones that can easily absorb pesticides, such as fruits and produce. If you want to incorporate healthier foods into your diet, start reading labels to see what additives are in them; just because a product is advertised as low fat or non-fat does not mean it is healthy. Eating organic can also help with healthy weight control or weight loss. Sticking to natural foods with the least amount of ingredients is always the best option!