Which foods are worth buying organic?

Is buying "organic" really worth it?

"organic produce and other ingredients are grown without the use of pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, sewage sludge, genetically modified organisms, or ionizing radiation. Animals that produce meat, poultry, eggs, and dairy products do not take antibiotics or growth hormones," says Organic.org. 

After reading the definition you would think yes! And well, it is, but its also more expensive. It can be 10%-100% more expensive then conventional produce. I don't want people to break the bank buying food, but I do want you to be aware of what you are putting into your body. 

My biggest goal at as Health Coach is to get people to eat more fruits and vegetables. Period!  Conventional is ok. Organic is better. Local is best.

Going to your local farmers market might be helpful with the cost of fruits and vegetables. Get to know your local farmers!  Most small farms don't have the "organic" label. Its very expensive and its a long process to become certified organic, and usually not worth it to small farms. So talking to your farmers to find out if they are pesticide and hormone free is a wonderful way to eat "organic" without being expensive. 

The other thing to think of when shopping is consider the Dirty Dozen and the Clean 15! 

Dirty Dozen: This is the top 12 most contaminated and sprayed fruits and veggies

  1. Apple
  2. Celery
  3. Strawberries
  4. Peaches
  5. Spinach
  6. Nectarines
  7. Grapes
  8. Sweet Bell Peppers
  9. Potatoes
  10. Blueberries
  11. Lettuce
  12. Kale

Clean 15: The lowest pesticide load and the safest conventional grown crops to eat

  1. Onions
  2. Corn
  3. Pineapple
  4. Avocado
  5. Asparagus
  6. Sweet Peas
  7. Mangoes
  8. Eggplant
  9. Cantaloupe
  10. Kiwi
  11. Cabbage
  12. Watermelon
  13. Sweet Potatoes
  14. Grapefruit
  15. Mushrooms

hope this helps next time you are grocery shopping.

Remember, Eat More Plants!

xoxo L