From the Reboot Your Life Authors, valuable information for healthy eating is widely available. If you would like to try some great raw foods recipes, check out their website. Below are some important guidelines regarding pesticides and organic foods.
It is recommended that buying organic produce when possible is best, but we know it's not always realistic.
Look for other key words such as Sustainable Produce or Sustainable Agriculture, which are not necessarily organic but indicate that the produce was grown with the health of the earth and individuals in mind. Check the labels and know where your produce comes from. Choose local produce as often as possible. Local produce is higher in nutrients because it's often eaten shortly after it is harvested. Many organic choices may come from farther distances.
Community Supported Agriculture (CSAs) is an excellent resource for organic produce. Many CSAs provide meats, poultry, dairy and eggs as well. Visit www.localharvest.org/csa to find one in your area. Farmer's Markets are a great resource for local, affordable produce. Most states have Websites listing details on location, dates and hours of operation for farmer's markets.
Here are some guidelines to help you choose which organic foods you should be buying, when possible. The USDA, Consumer Reports and The Environmental Working Group have compiled a list they call, "The Dirty Dozen," which shows the 12 fruits and vegetables with the highest amount of pesticides, or the ones you should try to get as organic.
Produce with the highest levels of pesticide:
• Peach
• Apples
• Bell Pepper (Green and Red)
• Celery
• Nectarine
• Strawberries
• Cherries
• Kale
• Lettuce
• Grapes (Imported)
• Carrot
• Pear
• Potato
Produce with the lowest levels of pesticide:
• Onion
• Avocado
• Sweet Corn
• Pineapple
• Mango
• Asparagus
• Sweet Peas
• Kiwi
• Cabbage
• Eggplant
• Papaya
• Watermelon
• Broccoli
