Organic is ALWAYS a better choice!

OK here we go...de-mystifying the term "organic". I hear it every single day in my practice, "How can I really tell its organic?", "Am I eating bug juice since the food isn't sprayed?", "Organic food is so much more expensive, is it worth it?".

First off...organic certification is extremely expensive and tedious! Tons of paperwork and red tape. Organic farmers are under the microscope of the USDA and have a whole lot at stake if they are found to be using non-compliant methods. So if it says its organic...trust it! On produce, the 4-number label will be proceded by a 9. You can also look for the green certified organic label.

I have been organic gardening for over 20 years. It is one of my true loves! I looked into getting certified and going into business but was totally detered by the arduous process, so we should be tipping our hats to the passionate people who take the challenge. And I can tell you that MOST certified organic farmers are doing it for the love of the land, the lifestyle and its a calling...NOT because they are making a lot of money. It is usually much more labor intensive then conventional methods and because organic methods are limited, they stand to loose more if there is a bug or disease infestation.

And a word about 'bug juice'...

Bug damage on fruits and vegetables can actually increase the nutrient content of the plant by activating the plants defense mechanisms to produce specific plant chemicals for protection, and when eaten it is these exact nutrients that protects us from bugs...bacteria, viruses and even cancer! How perfect is that!

And please...get over your vegetables needing to look perfect! We all have flaws so give your apple a break if it has some blemishes or even bruising. Conventional produce is bred to be beautiful, but not without a price...tougher skin, less nutrition, higher sugar, less enzymes. So close your eyes if you need to!

Farmers markets and local farms are among the most valuable industries in your area. Support them! They work hard to feed you the highest quality food around. It is usually picked that day (not weeks before and shipped around the world). This ensures the highest quality nutrient and enzyme content AND you are supporting local business.

I believe that shifting to an organic diet is one of the most valuable lifestyle changes you can do for your family, your health, your local economy, and your planet. It's more nutritious. It's environmentally ethical. It's morally ethical.

So, find your local beekeeper, join a CSA or community garden, visit local farms, and connect to your farmers and your food...and your food will connect to you.

"Our bodies are woven from food...so use the strongest thread you can find."~Leora

#organicfood #organicfarming #nutritiousfood #bugdamageonfood