Have you ever wondered how important it is to eat organic foods? Can foods farmed with pesticides really be that bad for your health? The answer is yes: Every day researchers find more evidence of the terrible health consequences of the pesticides we are exposed to through the foods we eat.
Unfortunately, it is easy to unknowingly eat pesticides. According to the experts at the EPA even the most careful cook cannot get rid of all the pesticides in conventionally grown fruits and vegetables. Thoroughly washing and peeling all of your food is a good idea but will not eliminate all pesticide residues. While the small doses of chemicals that remain in your food are not immediately toxic, over time, they can build up in your body and lead to very serious health problems. We don't completely understand the long term effects of all pesticides but there is already enough evidence out there to know that they are definitely bad for your health. Here are a few examples:
Scientists believe that certain pesticides can mimic human hormones such as oestrogen. Exposure can alter your body's natural hormonal balance and eventually increase your risk of developing certain hormone related cancers such as prostate and breast cancer.
Breast and prostate cancer are not the only cancers to worry about. Studies often associate non-Hodgkin lymphoma as well as leukemia with pesticide exposure.
Pregnant mothers and their children are especially vulnerable to pesticides which can cause miscarriages and abnormal fetal development. Mothers can also pass harmful chemicals to their children through their breast milk.
Three recent studies conducted in New York City and Salinas valley, California show that children exposed to pesticides while still in their mother's womb grow up to have an IQ that is on average 7 points lower that unexposed children.
In recent years multiple studies have also linked exposure to pesticides with a dramatic increase in the risk of developing Parkinson's disease.
The good news is that there is a simple way for you to keep your kitchen free of pesticides and improve your health: Choose organic products. Certified organic foods are guaranteed to be grown in uncontaminated soil without the use of synthetic pesticides. You can also work toward a healthier living environment by supporting organic farmers and retailers in your community.Organics are better for the earth and the rest of the environment, including all the other creatures who share our planet. Pesticides remain in the environment long after they are applied and continue to do harm. Why be a part of this cycle?
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