July 30th, 2010

Benefits Of Organic Food

Benefits Of Organic Food

What Are The Benefits Of Organic Food?

There is much discussion today about the pros and cons of organic food. People want to know whether organic food is better than non-organic food. They wonder whether the term "organic" is nothing more than the latest money-making marketing term being thrown about. They question the regulatory oversight bodies that determine whether the food that's labeled organic really meets all of the criteria. These are difficult questions to answer with certainty especially since the answers often depend on who is asked. Regardless, there are several very real benefits of consuming organic food. Here is an overview of the most common.

Organic Food Tastes Better

The people who eat organic food claim that organic food is more flavorful and studies have actually been conducted that confirm this belief. The chemicals that are used in the production of non-organic food definitely affect flavor.

Organic Food is Better for the Body

The United States Environmental Protection Agency now lists many of the chemicals used in the production of pesticides and fungicides as potential cancer-causing components. It makes sense then, that when non-organic foods are consumed, so too are these cancer-causing ingredients. Since these types of chemicals cannot be used to grow organic foods, they simply are not present and therefore, they cannot be ingested. Eating organic foods won't unfortunately prevent cancer because there are plenty of genetic and environmental factors that can cause it to develop. However eating organic food greatly reduces the chance that certain cancers will develop.

In addition, organically-grown produce contains up to 50% more of the vitamins, minerals and antioxidants the body needs to stay healthy and perform at optimum capacity. If you're trying to add more fruit and vegetables to your diet, you can double the benefits by eating organic ones.

You Can Feel Good about What You Eat

When you eat organic food, you know what you're not getting. You know you're not eating food that's been genetically altered or shot up with growth hormones and antibodies. You know that the skins of your fruits and vegetables aren't a thick covering of chemicals and other harmful ingredients. The bottom line: You know that you are fueling your body with healthy fuel. Centuries ago, people did not have as many health-related issues as they do in these more modern times. Plenty of people feel it is our food that is killing us.

You Help Protect Environment

When pesticides and fertilizers are applied to plants, there is no way to keep the chemicals used in their production from covering the ground. Rain and irrigation cause these chemicals to be absorbed into the ground. As they absorb into the ground, they percolate down to the underground water tables.

Ultimately, the chemicals leach into nearby water bodies. The soil as well as the water begins to be contaminated. Over time the birds, fish and other animals living in these environments become affected. Since organic foods are grown without using these dangerous chemicals, their growth will never impact the environment in this manner.

Proof that organic food is better?


I don't care about theory, speculation, old wives' tales, or trends. Is there any empirical data that shows the health benefits of organic food?

here is a link to a pdf that looked at 97 peer reviewed articles and concludes yes organic is better for you

http://mindd.org/s/uploads/pdf/OrganicFoodLiteratureReview-97studies1.pdf

Also the organic consumer association has many peer reviewed papers that say various organic foods are better than their conventionally raised counter parts.

http://www.organicconsumers.org

the Rodale institute has a 25+ year study comparing conventional corn and soy management to organic corn and soy management and have found that organic is consistently out producing the conventional crops. you should be able to find that study at http://www.rodaleinstitute.org

And finally you can find lots of peer reviewed papers that use empirical data at http://www.ofrf.org

know that this sort of research is very young-most research projects are under 10 years old and with farming we really need the long term research so in the coming years we will see more and more data about organic farming. I know the soil Association in the UK started a huge research project that will generate something like 45 papers covering many aspects of organic farm management as well as nutrition comparisons between conventionally raised foods and organically raised foods. I believe 2 or 3 of these papers are close to publication (going through peer review)

Health Benefits of Organic Food
Health Benefits of Organic Food
Sale Price: $170.00
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Description

Public concern over impacts of chemicals in plant and animal production on health and the environment has led to increased demand for organic produce, which is usually promoted and often perceived as containing fewer contaminants, more nutrients, and being positive for the environment.These benefits are difficult to quantify, and potential environmental impacts on such benefits have not been widely studied. This book addresses these key points, examining factors such as the role of certain nutrients in prevention and promotion of chronic disease, potential health benefits of bioactive compounds in plants, the prevalence of food-borne pesticides and pathogens and how both local and global environmental factors may affect any differences between organic and conventionally produced food.With contributions from experts in a broad range of related disciplines, this book is an essential resource for researchers and students in human health and nutrition, environmental science, agriculture and organic farming.

Barlean's Organic Oils Cinnamon Flax Oil, 12-Ounce Bottle
Barlean's Organic Oils Cinnamon Flax Oil, 12-Ounce Bottle
Sale Price: $16.82
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Description

NEW! All-Natural and Delicious Flavored Flax - Kids Love it! (Cinnamon or Lemonade) Awaken your senses and invigorate your body with Barlean's NEW, all-natural, cinnamon and lemonade flavored flax oils. Kids and adults alike will love the delicious, fresh lemonade or warm cinnamon flavors. And just like all the fine family of Barlean's products, each pure and pristine drop is fresh from our handcrafted press with an abundance of vital and essential Omega-3 fatty acids. Numerous studies have reported on the role of Omega-3 fatty acids in support of children's brain and eye development, as well as improved mood, learning, IQ, calmness, and the ability to handle stress. Barlean's cinnamon and lemonade flavored flax oils are a rich and delicious source of vital essential fatty acids perfect for the whole family.

Features

  • Top 10 Best Selling Natural Products*
  • Gold Medal Taster's Choice Award
  • #1 Best Selling Flax Oil*
  • Pure, unfiltered & unrefined
  • Pressed Fresh - Made To Order

Reviews

I will order it againF

by Kristina O'Donnelly from Atlantis on 2010-04-10
Flax oil is usually hard to take, but this one is actually pleasant. I cannot tout its miraculous benefits, my husband's bad cholesterol is still higher than it should be, he's been taking flax oil for the longest time (he takes fish oil too and I use safflower or olive oil for cooking) and has not touched meat or butter for two years, also, as with everything else that comes in a bottle, I just hope and pray that the ingredients are exactly as listed on the label... so we use it more on hope of its benefits rather than tangible results. Well, flax oil is good for you and you are better off taking it rather than not. I rated it 5 stars based on taste and the hope that the ingredients are exactly as listed...


Organic Dark Solid Chocolate Pavers 18 Pieces
Organic Dark Solid Chocolate Pavers 18 Pieces
Sale Price: $21.84
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Description

Very dark organic chocolate squares covered with cocoa powder. 78%+ cocoa and 100% organic. Good for your taste buds and good for your heart

Features

  • 100% organic
  • very dark chocolate
  • great presentation

Reviews

Delightful

by Heather from Nebraska on 2006-08-15
This is a lovely dark chocolate, smooth, deep and rich with the added benefit of being organic. The presentation is beautiful, had I have had the will-power, I'd have made a gift of it as it was, but this time, the indulgence was mine.


Field and Garden Vegetables of America
Field and Garden Vegetables of America
List Price: $4.88

Description

But, with regard to the characteristics which distinguish the numerous varieties; their difference in size, form, color, quality, and season of perfection; their hardiness, productiveness, and comparative value for cultivation,—these details, a knowledge of which is important as well to the experienced cultivator as to the beginner, have heretofore been obtained only through sources scattered and fragmentary. To supply this deficiency in horticultural literature, I have endeavored, in the following pages, to give full descriptions of the vegetables common to the gardens of this country. It is not, however, presumed that the list is complete, as many varieties, perhaps of much excellence, are comparatively local: never having been described, they are, of course, little known. Neither is the expectation indulged, that all the descriptions will be found perfect; though much allowance must be made in this respect for the influence of soil, locality, and climate, as well as for the difference in taste of different individuals. Much time, labor, and expense have been devoted to secure accuracy of names and synonymes; the seeds of nearly all of the prominent varieties having been imported both from England and France, and planted, in connection with American vegetables of the same name, with reference to this object alone. The delay and patience required in the preparation of a work like the present may be in some degree appreciated from the fact, that in order to obtain some comparatively unimportant particular with regard to the foliage, flower, fruit, or seed, of some obscure and almost unknown plant, it has been found necessary to import the seed or root; to plant, to till, to watch, and wait an entire season. Though some vegetables have been included which have proved of little value either for the table or for agricultural purposes, still it is believed such descriptions will be found by no means unimportant; as a timely knowledge of that which is inferior, or absolutely worthless, is often as advantageous as a knowledge of that which is of positive superiority. That the volume may be acceptable to the agriculturist, seedsman, and to all who may possess, cultivate, or find pleasure in, a garden, is the sincere wish of the author.

Coconut Oil Pure 7 Ounces
Coconut Oil Pure 7 Ounces
Sale Price: $8.43
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Description

Derived from Philippine coconuts using an extraction technique that is completely free of solvents, NOW Coconut Oil is 100% natural and very high in saturated fats making it very skin-friendly. Our unique formula smells wonderful and leaves the skin feeling silky smooth and refreshed with no greasy residue. NOW Coconut Oil is an excellent natural alternative to chemically-influenced commercial moisturizers, suntan oils, and scalp conditioners.

Features

  • 7 Ounces Cream
  • Serving Size:

Reviews

Great for Feet

by LazyChick from on 2010-02-24
I admit that I've never used coconut oil up until now, but I'm pretty impressed with what it's done so far in the last few days. I've lived in a dry/cold, high-elevation area and have been stuck with hard very well water for a few years now. Ever since moving here, my skin has been excessively itchy and dry, and my feet severely cracked and looking near-freakish. I've tried numerous products on the market for feet, bearing little to no results.When I finally tried the coconut oil just a few days ago on my feet, I woke up with fantastic improvement. The deep cracks or fissures, as well as flakiness, are starting to vanish. When first applying it, I noticed almost immediately how well the oil penetrated the skin where it needs to, especially down in the cracks, unlike the vast majority of creams I've tried in the past. I woke up the first morning and ever since with incredibly soft feet since using it, and it lasts for a long while. It also has done a pretty nice job on the eczema spot on my arm, as well as the ends of my hair, which I smooth excessive, leftover (now semi-hardened) oil on before going to bed. However, I've not tried it as a leave-in or deep conditioner yet.The contents, as with any coconut oil, do come hardened in the container, and I had to shave off the oil into a bowl (about a 1/4c) with a spoon and soften it in the microwave. Though a big fan of sweet-smelling products, I'm not too crazy about the smell of this, which isn't horrible, but almost like a sickly-sweet white chocolate. It did smell pretty bad straight from the container, but that went away when I softened and mixed it up some. Due to the smell, I plan on only using it before bed and with a fresh pair of socks on, then will use jojoba oil during the day if I plan to go anywhere, since it's non-scented. I'm not sure if that's just this particular product or if they all smell exactly the same--though some may like it.A little goes a long way with this, and you don't need to reheat after the 1st time if you just plan to put it on the skin. I plan on melting or softening some in a olive-oil sprayed, silicon muffin tray (or other type that helps with mold shape) as some others have suggested, creating a bar to just roll over the skin (can also be used as soap, I guess). I think if you're just using it as a leave-in, then the same thing applies--only use a little bit smooth on the palm of your hands, unless you're going for a deep conditioner.All in all, and aside from the smell, great results and would recommend.


Very Moisturizing

by L. Freeman from South Carolina on 2009-06-29
This product makes my hair alot softer. It helps to keep my ends moisturized. A very good moisturizing conditioner.


disappointed

by K. Henderson from on 2009-06-04
I bought this for my 3 month olds skin and hair. Every time I use it on her hair, her head smells like vomit!!!! YUCK!!!!!!!! I don't want to put it on her body or mine for fear that we'll smell like that all day.


Difficult to store but good product

by L. Lin from Boston, MA USA on 2009-01-31
Due to the nature of coconut oil, this is a difficult product to store, (if it's too cold, it solidifies too much and you cannot scoop it out, if it is too warm, it completely melts into liquid oil which is also difficult to use.) However, at just the right temperature, you can scoop it out and it melts onto your body amazingly and absorbs fabulously. You just have to be careful about the climate that you will be placing this oil in, (must be around 70 degrees for it to be the right amount of hardness/softness.)


An excellent product

by Asitha Cooray from Socorro, New Mexico on 2008-07-07
I purchased coconut oil as a hair oil and was using coconut from my childhood. I tried several products in USA and found this brand is the excellent one I have found so far.


Similac Organic Complete Nutrition for Baby's First Year 34 oz. Each Pack of 6
Similac Organic Complete Nutrition for Baby's First Year 34 oz. Each Pack of 6
Sale Price: $263.50
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Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days

Description

Similac Formula. A Strong Start for Every Baby. Strong babies need StrongMoms. That's why everything Similac does is inspired by moms. Designed with moms for moms, the new Similac SimplePac features a scoop in the lid so it doesn't get lost in the powder, a hinged lid so it stays on the container, and a one-hand grip so it is easy to grab and hold! Plus, it has a wider opening to make scooping out the formula easier and custom corners so you can get every last bit of formula. Say goodbye to fighting with the formula can.

Features

  • Similac Organic baby formula is certified USDA organic and has the trusted nutritional benefits of Similac Advance baby formula with the wholesomeness of organic milk
  • Organic ingredients are produced without the use of growth hormones, antibiotics and other chemicals # To be certified USDA Organic and display the USDA Organic seal, a product must contain at least 95% organic ingredients by weight.
  • USDA Organic certification ensures that the farm where the food is grown and the companies that handle or process the food meet USDA Organic standards
Aloe Vera Gel 1 gallon
Aloe Vera Gel 1 gallon
List Price: $19.99
Sale Price: $17.08
You save: $2.91 (15%)
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Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days
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Description

Based on its soothing, cooling properties, many refer to Aloe Vera simply as the "medicine plant". Externally, it?s been used throughout history to help ease the pain of sunburns, minor wounds, cuts, scrapes and rashes. Many researchers believe that aloe can enhance the body?s ability to heal by stimulating the activity of collagen and elastin ? two compounds responsible for healthy tissue integrity.*

Features

  • 1 Gels
  • Serving Size: 8oz
  • 16 Servings Per Container

Reviews

Natural hair growing secret

by Zaphanaphanea from Houma, LA on 2010-07-18
This aloe vera gel is the best. I love it so much, I have ordered gallons since this purchase. Thanks so much for making it readily available.


Aloe Vera Gel

by L. A. from Milwaukee, WI on 2010-05-29
Great organic aloe vera gel at a great price with quick shipping. This product has many uses. Good supplement for digestive health. Good used topically for skin problems. Would recommend this product from this seller.


Great way to save money on aloe

by Jennifer Staton from on 2010-04-18
I have been using my gallon for about 3 weeks now and the whole family is happy with it. It has a very nice scent and is nice for helping scratches and small cuts on the hand to heal. I save a lot of money by refilling my hand cream bottles in each bathroom with this.it is especially helpful when the heater is running a lot in the cold weather.


ALOE VERA GEL

by Pam Parker from Missouri on 2008-12-20
Excellent service and an excellent product. I have used this for several years. Wonderful for esophagus problems and digestive problems.


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