What are the benefits of eating organic foods?

 

The health benefits that are linked to eating organic foods are increasing. However, it’s not certain that eating organic foods will make a difference in one’s health.

In comparison to non-organic foods, organic foods offer:

• Reduced exposure to pesticides and insecticides. This is a significant benefit of organic produce and grains.

• Increased exposure to omega-3 fatty acids. Livestock fed through grazing usually have higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids, which provide healthy heart benefits.

• Less exposure to cadmium. Studies have shown significantly lower levels of the toxic metal cadmium in organic grains.

• Increased levels of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and other beneficial micronutrients. Organically grown fruits, vegetables and grains have higher amounts of vitamin C, vitamin E and carotenoids; plus higher amounts of the minerals calcium, potassium, phosphorus, magnesium and iron.

• Less bacteria. Less exposure to bacteria in meat.

• Less exposure to antibiotics. Eating organic meats leads to less exposure to antibiotics and growth hormones that have been used to treat livestock. These medicines may lead to antibiotic resistance and other problems in humans.