Organic Food For Better Health

In the past few years, the popularity of organic products has increased significantly. Many people are enjoying consuming organic food because they believe consuming it is healthier, tastier, or cost-effective. Some claim this dietary option is healthier for the ecosystem and increases animal well-being within the human food chain. The terminology “organic” is indeed a reference towards how different foods are processed as well as grown before they enter the consumer market.

To qualify for this marking they must be free of toxic chemicals, pesticides, hormones including GMOs. There should be no artificial food additives in all of these items, either. Thus many people would buy certified organic fruits, vegetables, dairy products, grains, as well as meat products. If you are considering making the switch to organic foods then maybe you should take into account the 7 benefits mentioned below

1. Organic food seems to be an eco friendly method of production.

Organic foods are very often chosen because people want to avoid toxic chemicals. Eating these products can lower your risk to residues of certain pesticides. It can also reduce your risk of infections caused by bacteria resistant to antibiotics. Evidence suggests that eating organic foods will start reducing the cadmium exposure by 48%. Residues of pesticides are four times more likely to be present on traditional crops than organic ones.

2. To some people organic foods could perhaps taste much better.

Since there are reports that show that non-organic foods taste very much like organic foods, certain food products could also have a noticeable difference in flavor and aroma. Vegetables and fruits cultivated through this process tend to benefit the most from this advantage. As this commodity continues to grow more slowly compared to increasing methods of cash-crop, it appears to have very little water content. This structure contributes towards the fuller taste profile felt by some people.

3. Often organic foods are affordable, so other prices can be reduced.

When you are willing to buy at local retailers, there are many other organic products that are significantly cheaper than their traditional equivalents are. You can not find some things in the grocery store, but at a nearby farmers’ market, you might find them. Many products are also now available online. When trying to compare organic and non-organic expenses, many of the most consumed producing products available are priced relatively equally. There is then the health benefit to remember while eating organic products. If you are exposed to less synthetic pesticides and herbicides, there’s also the opportunity to save money for future costs for health care.

4. Organic food helps to boost local economy and they’re long lasting.

Since organic products do not always travel, most stores stock goods that are produced locally for consumption by their customers. This implies your purchase of all these fruits and vegetables would help reinvest the proceeds for the local economy. We can also freeze organic grocery! Within the freezer section of most supermarkets, you can also find organic frozen vegetables and groceries as a convenient way to boost your eating habits without compromising comfort. There could even be chances of buying organic food in bulk. This way they last longer.

5. Organic foods may indeed be healthier for consumption.

If you consume traditional food products, you have a great risk of exposing the body to specific synthetic chemicals. Such food source contaminants have indeed been linked with issues of infertility, multiple cancers, Parkinson’s disease, endocrine disorders as well as autoimmune conditions. Consumption of herbicides can also contribute to developing heart disease including hypertension. Removing these things from your diet will allow your body a chance to heal.

6. Organic foods reduce the potential risk of taking antibiotics.

The conventional food chain cycle also requires animal antibiotic consumption to prevent disease or death from reducing the profit margin. During the butchering cycle these drugs live in the animal’s body until they hit your plate. When you eat enough of them, your body will start developing a resistance to the drug. The bacteria which can cause troubling infections may also establish immunity to it.

7. 85% of organic foods are far less likely to contain pesticide residues.

When you equate organic foods with traditional items then the concentration of pesticide residues on each item would drop significantly. This includes products that contain natural items permitted for use by organic farmers. On organic items too, multiple residues are extremely rare. A few other items have levels of exposure that are 100 times lower when viewing this advantage as compared to the traditional food items.

You may always be raising the question to yourself at the end of the day. And the conclusion is yes, organic food is indeed better. Organic is better for you, better for most people who grow and pick the food, and better for the environment.… Read the rest

The main reason why organic food is preferred to conventional food is the belief that organic food contains higher nutritional benefits than non-organic food. Other common reasons to buy organic produce is to support the local market and also protect the environment.

The farming methods involved in organic production differ from non-organic or conventional farming. The most common practices in organic farming are as follows:

• No use of synthetic fertilizers.
• Minimal use of synthetic pesticides and herbicides.
• Genetically engineered crops or genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are not cultivated.
• Methods such as irradiation are not used to kill pests and pathogens or to extend shelf life.
• Growth hormones or antibiotics are not used to raise livestock.
• Processed organic foods do not contain any synthetic additives.

Health Benefits of Organic Food

Nutrients

Scientists have reported that crops grown in organic farms have higher levels of bioactive compounds and antioxidants than crops grown by conventional methods. This is because plants adopt natural defense systems to protect themselves against diseases, for example, the synthesis of antioxidants. Such useful bioactive compounds are not adequately produced when excessive chemical pesticides are used for crop development.

Scientists have also reported a higher concentration of bioactive compounds such as polyphenols, phenolic acids, and flavanones, in organic produce than its conventional counterpart. Some polyphenols have antioxidant properties that help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.

Phenolic acids also have anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties. Polyphenols are found in beans, nuts, vegetables, spices, etc. Several recent studies have also revealed that organic food contains higher amounts of minerals and vitamins, such as zinc, vitamin C, and iron.

Beef and milk from organic farms have been reported to contain a higher concentration of omega-3-fatty-acids. These are healthy fats that help prevent coronary heart diseases. Scientists have reported that a higher level of beneficial omega-3 fatty acids is present in milk from grass-fed cows. Fish like salmon and mackerel are considered a rich source of omega-3-fatty-acids.

However, it must be noted that researchers have not found any significant difference in the nutritional levels (baring a few as mentioned previously) in the agricultural products obtained by both the types of farming (conventional and organic).

Food safety

As conventional farming uses synthetic pesticides and fertilizers for agricultural production, some amount of pesticide residues adheres to them, even after washing with water. On the contrary, organic foods contain minimal to lesser than detectable levels of pesticide residues. In other words, organic foods contain much lower levels of contaminants.

Epidemiological Studies Indicating the Benefits of Organic Foods

One of the most prominent benefits of an organic diet is minimal exposure to synthetic pesticides. Pesticides are extremely harmful to humans because of their carcinogenic, neurotoxic, and endocrine-disrupting properties.

Researchers have found that exposure to pesticides during pregnancy would negatively affect the child in terms of their intelligence quotient and neuro-behavioral development such as the development of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

On evaluating the structural brain growth using magnetic resonance imaging, scientists have found that the gray matter was thinner in children whose mothers have greater exposure to organophosphates, a constituent of most pesticides. Thereby, an organic food diet is highly beneficial for pregnant and breastfeeding women.

Growth hormones or antibiotics used for raising livestock cause hormonal imbalances and drug resistance. Overuse of antibiotics in farm animals contributes to the development of antibiotic resistance against bacteria. The resistance may be passed on from animal to human beings, which has significantly raised concern for public health. As stated earlier, organic farming does not use antibiotics, therefore, they are considered a safer food option.… Read the rest

The health benefits of organic food are undeniable. The purity of organic foods ensures that they are free from harmful chemicals and additives, making them a safe and healthy choice. Plus, the nature-inspired goodness of organic farming practices promotes sustainability and biodiversity, ensuring that you are getting the best possible food from Mother Nature.

So, whether you’re a seasoned organic foodie or just dipping your toes into the world of healthy eating, it’s worth taking a closer look at the advantages of organic foods. From promoting heart health and reducing the risk of chronic diseases to improving digestion and boosting energy levels, there’s no denying that organic food products offer a wide range of benefits.

So, let’s dive in and explore ten of the most impressive health benefits of organic food products. Whether you’re interested in the benefits of eating organic food items such as fruits, vegetables, or other organic products, there’s something here for everyone. Get ready to discover how organic food can improve your health and wellbeing, one delicious bite at a time.

Advantages of organic foods

1.     Organic foods are nutrient-dense.

Meaning they contain a high concentration of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that are essential for optimal health. The organic farming practices, such as crop rotation and the use of natural fertilizers, promote nutrient-rich soil, which, in turn, increases the nutritional content of the food. So, indulging in some organic fruits and vegetables in your diet will ensure you get your daily dose of essential nutrients.

2.     Organic foods are chemicals-free.

Which is a game-changer when it comes to your health. Conventional farming practices use synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, and other harmful chemicals that can lead to numerous health problems. By consuming organic foods, you can avoid exposure to these harmful chemicals, which can cause a range of health issues – from allergies to cancer.

3.     Organic foods promote heart health.

They contain high levels of fiber, potassium, and magnesium, which help to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease. So, if you want to keep your heart healthy, make the move towards organic fruits, veggies, and whole grains.

4.     Organic foods promote digestive health.

They are free from harmful additives, preservatives, and synthetic chemicals that can disrupt the digestive system. Instead, organic foods contain fiber that promotes digestive health by improving bowel regularity and preventing constipation.

5.     Organic foods boost the immune system.

They contain high levels of nutrients like vitamins and antioxidants that help to strengthen the immune system. By consuming organic foods, you can protect your body against infections, diseases, and other health problems. For example, broccoli is rich in sulphurs, making it good for our immune system. So you can include fresh or even frozen broccoli in your diet.

6.     Organic foods reduce the risk of cancer.

Conventional farming practices use synthetic pesticides, which have been linked to an increased risk of cancer. By consuming organic foods, you can reduce your exposure to these harmful chemicals and lower your risk of cancer.

7.     Organic foods reduce the risk of obesity.

Organic foods are nutrients-rich and contain fewer calories than conventional foods. By consuming organic foods, you can reduce your calorie intake and lower your risk of obesity.

8.     Organic foods improve mental health.

They contain nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids and B vitamins, which help to improve mental health. These nutrients can help to alleviate stress, anxiety, and depression, making organic foods an excellent choice for improving your overall well-being.

9.     Organic foods reduce the risk of birth defects.

Synthetic pesticides used in conventional farming practices have been linked to an increased risk of birth defects. By consuming organic foods during pregnancy, you can reduce your exposure to these harmful chemicals and lower the risk of birth defects.

10.   Organic foods reduce the risk of allergic diseases.

Switching to an organic diet may lead to a reduction in allergic symptoms, which includes seasonal allergies and atopic dermatitis otherwise known as eczema.

In conclusion, it’s clear that health benefit of organic food is not just a fad, but a lifestyle choice that can positively impact our health and the environment. By choosing organic foods, you are not only nourishing your body with purity and nature-inspired goodness, but you’re also supporting sustainable and environmentally friendly farming practices.

Incorporating more organic foods into your diet can have a significant impact on your overall health and well-being. The nutrient-dense benefits of organic fruits, vegetables, and other products are hard to ignore, and they can improve not only your physical health but your mental health as well. Plus, by choosing organic foods, you are supporting sustainable and environmentally friendly farming practices, promoting soil health, and biodiversity, and protecting natural resources.

The next time you’re at the grocery store, consider opting for organic fruits, vegetables, and other organic food products. You can also choose various frozen organic food items such as organic frozen mixed vegetables, frozen green peas , and much more as they contain the same nutritional values. Your body will thank you for the purity and nature-inspired goodness of these nutrient-rich foods, and you can rest easy knowing that you’re making a positive impact on your health and the environment.… Read the rest

Once found only in health food stores, organic food is now a common feature at most grocery stores. And that’s made a bit of a problem in the produce aisle.

For example, you can pick an apple grown with usual (conventional) methods. Or you can pick one that’s organic. Both apples are firm, shiny and red. They both provide vitamins and fiber. And neither apple has fat, salt or cholesterol. Which should you choose? Get the facts before you shop.

What is organic farming?

The word “organic” means the way farmers grow and process farming (agricultural) products. These products include fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy products such as milk and cheese, and meat. Organic farming practices are designed to meet the following goals:

• Improve soil and water quality
• Cut pollution
• Provide safe, healthy places for farm animals (livestock) to live
• Enable natural farm animals’ behavior
• Promote a self-sustaining cycle of resources on a farm

Materials or methods not allowed in organic farming include:

• Artificial (synthetic) fertilizers to add nutrients to the soil
• Sewage sludge as fertilizer
• Most synthetic pesticides for pest control
• Using radiation (irradiation) to preserve food or to get rid of disease or pests
• Using genetic technology to change the genetic makeup (genetic engineering) of crops, which can improve disease or pest resistance, or to improve crop harvests
• Antibiotics or growth hormones for farm animals (livestock)

Organic crop farming materials or practices may include:

• Plant waste left on fields (green manure), farm animals’ manure or compost to improve soil quality
• Plant rotation to keep soil quality and to stop cycles of pests or disease
• Cover crops that prevent wearing away of soil (erosion) when sections of land aren’t in use and to plow into soil for improving soil quality
• Mulch to control weeds
• Insects or insect traps to control pests
• Certain natural pesticides and a few synthetic pesticides approved for organic farming, used rarely and only as a last choice and coordinated with a USDA organic certifying agent

Organic farming practices for farm animals (livestock) include:

• Healthy living conditions and access to the outdoors
• Pasture feeding for at least 30% of farm animals’ nutritional needs during grazing season
• Organic food for animals
• Shots to protect against disease (vaccinations)

Organic or not? Check the label

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has set up an organic certification program that requires all organic food to meet strict government standards. These standards control how such food is grown, handled and processed.

Any product labeled as organic on the product description or packaging must be USDA certified. If it’s certified, the producer may also use an official USDA Organic seal.

The USDA says producers who sell less than $5,000 a year in organic food don’t need to be certified. These producers must follow the guidelines for organic food production. But they don’t need to go through the certification process. They can label their products as organic. But they can’t use the official USDA Organic seal.

The USDA guidelines describe organic foods on product labels as:

• 100% organic. This label is used on certified organic fruits, vegetables, eggs, meat or other foods that have one ingredient. It may also be used on food items with many ingredients if all the items are certified organic, except for salt and water. These may have a USDA seal.
• Organic. If a food with many ingredients is labeled organic, at least 95% of the ingredients are certified organic, except for salt and water. The items that aren’t organic must be from a USDA list of approved additional ingredients. These also may have a USDA seal.
• Made with organic. If a product with many ingredients has at least 70% certified organic ingredients, it may have a “made with organic” ingredients label. For example, a breakfast cereal might be labeled “made with organic oats.” The ingredient list must show what items are organic. These products can’t carry a USDA seal.
• Organic ingredients. If a product has some organic ingredients but less than 70% of the ingredients are certified organic , the product can’t be labeled as organic. It also can’t carry a USDA seal. The ingredient list can show which ingredients are organic.

Does ‘organic’ mean the same thing as ‘natural’?

No, “natural” and “organic” are different. Usually, “natural” on a food label means that the product has no artificial colors, flavors or preservatives. “Natural” on a label doesn’t have to do with the methods or materials used to grow the food ingredients.

Also be careful not to mix up other common food labels with organic labels. For example, certified organic beef guidelines include pasture access during at least 120 days of grazing season and no growth hormones. But the labels “free-range” or “hormone-free” don’t mean a farmer followed all guidelines for organic certification.

Organic food: Is it safer or more nutritious?

Some data shows possible health benefits of organic foods when compared with foods grown using the usual (conventional) process. These studies have shown differences in the food. But there is limited information to prove how these differences can give potential overall health benefits.

Potential benefits include the following:

• Nutrients. Studies have shown small to moderate increases in some nutrients in organic produce. Organic produce may have more of certain antioxidants and types of flavonoids, which have antioxidant properties.
• Omega-3 fatty acids. The feeding requirements for organic farm animals (livestock) usually cause higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids. These include feeding cattle grass and alfalfa. Omega-3 fatty acids — a kind of fat — are more heart healthy than other fats. These higher omega-3 fatty acids are found in organic meats, dairy and eggs.
• Toxic metal. Cadmium is a toxic chemical naturally found in soils and absorbed by plants. Studies have shown much lower cadmium levels in organic grains, but not fruits and vegetables, when compared with crops grown using usual (conventional) methods. The lower cadmium levels in organic grains may be related to the ban on

The term “organic food” or “organic products” refers to the way agricultural products and livestock are grown, raised, and processed. Organic agriculture is different from the conventional way of farming.

Organic crops that are considered “organic produce” have to be grown without any GMOs, pesticides, synthetic herbicides, or fertilizers.

When we say “organic livestock” that means that the livestock raised for meat, eggs, or dairy products has to be raised in conditions accommodating to their natural behaviors, with the ability to graze on pasture. They also need to be fed organic feed and forage, and can’t be given any antibiotics or growth hormones. That’s why you often hear that organic meat is better for you.

There are so many health benefits of eating an organic diet. It would be amazing for public health if people tried to eat an organic diet more. You don’t need to change much – you still eat conventional foods you normally eat, but you’re making sure you’re eating healthy food (and organic food is important for food safety).

8 Benefits Of Organic Food

Organic Products Are Fresher

Organic products are much fresher than regular, conventional products. The reason for that is that non-organic products are infused with preservatives that make them last longer. But organic produce doesn’t have any of that, which means it’s fresher. So, that’s one of the best benefits of eating an organic diet.

No Antibiotics Are Used In Organic Products

Non-organic foods (livestock specifically) often have antibiotics in them. When humans consume that food that has antibiotics in it, humans also end up consuming the antibiotics. That can create antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria, which can alter the human’s immune system, and make them not be able to fight diseases. But when you eat organic products, there are no antibiotics added to that, so it’s completely safe to eat.

Organic Products Aren’t Genetically Modified

Organic products are GMO-free, which is something you should look for in everything that you consume. That means that they are not genetically engineered (their DNAs aren’t altered), but conventionally grown.

While there still isn’t concrete proof, many scientists believe that GMO food causes slower brain growth, internal organ damage, and so much more. So, organic food is better for food safety.

Organic Products Are Better For The Environment

Organic farms use less energy, they pollute the environment a lot less than conventional farms, they conserve water more, increase soil fertility, and reduce soil erosion. Farms that use synthetic pesticides can cause damage to people living nearby, as well as to birds and animals, so organic farms are safer for everyone, since they don’t use any pesticides.

Organic Products Taste Better

Organic products taste much better than non-organic products. They have more nutrients, and the mineral and sugar structures in them are much tastier, because they had time to develop and mature naturally, and no artificial chemicals were added to them.

With organic fruits and vegetables, you’re getting the real and full taste of the product, not an altered one. The quality of the flavors in organic fruits and vegetables is so much higher than in non-organic ones.

Organic Products Don’t Have Any Poison In Them

Organic farming doesn’t use any artificial and harmful chemicals to keep the pests away. That means that they aren’t contaminated with any dangerous chemical substances that could be harmful to consumers, unlike most conventional farms.

Organic Products Are Free Of Pesticides

Pesticides can be very harmful to humans. While they are good for keeping pests away from fruit and vegetables, they are unnatural chemicals and shouldn’t be consumed by humans. Almost all non-organic fruit and vegetables have pesticides, and some even with very high levels of pesticide, which makes them potentially harmful to consumers. Even small amounts of pesticide residue can be harmful if you consume it for every single meal (if all of your produce has pesticie residue).

On the other hand, organic products are pesticide-free, which makes them healthier and much safer to consume.

Organic Products Have More Antioxidants

It is a well-known fact that antioxidants have a very positive impact on our health. As many studies show, antioxidants are even healthier when they come from organic food.

The reason for that is that non-organic food has chemicals, and they can lower the value of antioxidants, whereas with organic fruit and vegetables, there are no chemicals, so you get full benefits of antioxidants when you eat your produce.

Tips For Buying Organic Food

Compare Prices

Organic food is usually more expensive than non-organic food, because it takes longer to produce and there is less organic food in grocery stores than non-organic food.

So, how can you buy organic food without breaking the bank? Well, compare prices in different stores. Many stores have different prices, sales, coupons, so look around and try to find an option that is the most budget-friendly.

Shop At Farmers Markets

Farmer’s markets can often be a lot more budget-friendly than grocery stores or supermarkets, plus, they have more fresh, organic fruit and veggies for you to choose from. So, go to your local farmers market, and stock up on some delicious, healthy, and organic fruit and vegetables.

Buy Fruits And Veggies That Are In Season

This tip is very important – buy fruits and veggies that are in season. When buying organic produce, you need to shop in season. It not only makes it less expensive, but you’ll be able to find what you’re looking for a lot easier if it’s in season when you’re shopping. Because organic produce doesn’t have any chemicals added to them, you can’t get them when they’re not in season.

Join Food Co-Ops

Cooperative grocery stores usually offer lower prices for their members that pay an annual fee. So, if you want to buy organic food on a budget, joining a food co-op would be a good idea. In the end, it ends up being worth it, because you’d be saving all of the time, especially since eating organic food all … Read the rest

Reasons for which vegetables are cooked

1. To soften the product
2. To improve the flavor.
3. To increase the digestibility.
4. To preserve the vegetables.

Effects of heat on vegetables

Cooking is the application of heat to food to make it safer to eat, digestible and more palatable. Cooking also changes the appearance of the food. Heat breaks down the cellulose and the starches present, changes and blend flavor within the food, and also destroy bacteria to make food digestible.

• CARBOHYDRATES: Caramelization and Gelatinization. Both sugar and starch are carbohydrates. Caramelization is browning of sugars and Vegetables get softened by the gelatinization of the starch.
• VEGETABLE FIBERS: Fibbers are a group of complex substances that give structure and firmness to plant. they cannot be digested. Heat breaks down the fibers. Alkali makes fiber softer but make them mushy and lose essential vitamins.
• MINERALS, VITAMINS, PIGMENTS AND FLAVOUR COMPONENTS: Minerals dissolve in water during cooking. Vitamins and pigments may also be destroyed by prolonged cooking. Pigment and flavor may also determine whether the food is appetizing enough to eat or not.
• PROTEIN: When heat is applied to the protein they become firm or they start to coagulate with heat. Proteins become tough and dry when exposed to high heat.

Various Rules For Vegetable Preparation

1. Do not let the vegetable soak in water unless necessary.
2. Wash the vegetables just before peeling.
3. Cook or bake the vegetable in their skin.
4. Use the minimum amount of liquid during boiling.
5. Use the water in which the vegetables are boiled (pot liquor).
6. Use the correct cooking medium which can be acidic, alkali or neutral.
7. Cut the vegetable as near to the cooking time as possible.
8. Serve the food as soon as it is ready for the service.
9. Keep the oxygen away from the vitamin-rich foods by covering them with water.
10. For uniform doneness, cut into uniform sizes before cooking.
11.  If vegetable must be cooked in advance, slightly undercook them, cool rapidly in cold water, drain and refrigerate, then reheat to order.

Suggestive cooking for different vegetables

• Boiling: This is the most common method of cooking vegetables. For green vegetables such as peas, french beans, etc. The vegetables are put in boiling water and cooked for the minimum time possible and refresh to avoid overcooking. Green vegetables while boiling should not be covered; otherwise, their color will be changed to olive green. Root vegetables should be placed in cold water and the pot should be covered by a lid, the water is brought to boiling point then simmer till the vegetables are cooked.
• Steaming: vegetables are cut into even size after washing and placed in the steamer for cooking. This method helps in the maximum preservation of the nutrients and good for peas, beans, cauliflower, cabbage, etc.
• Braising: vegetables after blanching are laid on aromatic to be braised such as cabbage, onion, etc.
• Baking: vegetables baked in a baking oven suitable for potatoes, tomatoes, pimentos, etc
• Roasting: some vegetables can be roasted. They are placed in a hot pan containing oil and condiments suitable for potatoes, onions, and parsnips, etc.
• Shallow frying: it is applicable for mushrooms, onions, pepper, tomatoes, etc.
• Deep frying: vegetables such as potatoes, brinjals and onions can be deep-fried but a loss of vitamins takes place in this method of cooking.
• Grilling: small potatoes can be grilled to give color.
• Stewing: vegetables such as marrows, peas, etc. Can be stewed.

How to Retain the color of Green Vegetables

• Cook them uncovered to allow the vegetables volatile acid to escape. when the vegetables are cooked with a cover, the plants natural acid in leeched into the cooking liquid and is trapped there creating an acidic cooking medium. This combined with the heat present and destroys the pigment.
• Cook them quickly until just “Al Dente”, Extended exposure to heat will destroy the color.
• Steam Green vegetables whenever possible, this shorten the cooking time, allows for less acid build-up and retain more color.