As we discussed last week, consuming conventional produce can expose you to toxins. Since toxins are stored in the fat, your body will create more fat as a buffer to these toxins. This is a brilliant way the body tries to protect us, but it can be very frustrating if you are trying to lose weight.
Ideally everyone would eat organic food all the time, but we know that isn’t always possible. Let’s take a look at the different quality of food, so you can decide what steps you want to take on your health journey.
Recommendations
When talking about fruits and vegetables, the best option is to buy organically grown produce from a local farmer. (Remember that these farms may not be certified organic.) Local farmer’s markets are great places to connect with farmers in the summer, but you can also buy through a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program.
When those options are not available, buying organic produce in the grocery store is your next best option.
The Dirty Dozen
The Environmental Working Group measures the toxins on/in produce grown conventionally (using synthetic fertilizers and pesticides) and then publishes their results. The produce that is most contaminated is put on the "Dirty Dozen" list, while the least pesticide laden produce is put on a list called the "Clean Fifteen." If you are not quite ready to make the commitment to buy all organic produce, you can check out the “Dirty Dozen” and “Clean Fifteen” lists.
Your Challenge
Look at the dirty dozen list below before you go to the grocery store. Check the price difference between the conventional and organic items. Then ask yourself if it is possible to purchase organic produce for the items on the dirty dozen lists.
If you aren’t ready for a big change that is okay. Start small by picking one thing off the dirty dozen list to begin buying organically. Every time you buy it, consider it a big win!
Keep an eye out for next week's blog, where we will talk about the importance of eating organic dairy and meat products!
Dr. Jamie