One of the biggest questions I get is, “should I buy everything organic?” The short answer (in a dream perfect world) yes! The less toxins we can expose our bodies too, the better off we are going to be. However, I am also realistic and realize that it is expensive to buy everything you eat organic.
A big concern with non-organic fruits and vegetables is the risk of pesticide exposure. 178 pesticides have been identified on fruits and veggies grown in the US.
These pesticides have been linked to
- certain cancers
- fertility issues
- immune system dysfunction
- damage to your endocrine system (controlling your thyroid, adrenals, pancreas, and you gastrointestinal track)
The EWC publishes a list every year of our top hitters when it comes to pesticide residue. These lists are called the dirty dozen and the clean fifteen. The dirty dozen are the items that you should always buy organic because they contain the most pesticides. If you are on a budget, the clean 15 have less pesticides and you can buy conventionally grown. Ideally you are buying all organic from your farmers market- but let’s be real, that’s not always happening. Make sure to take the clean 15 and dirty 12 lists with you next time you go shopping!
