Tips for Organic Food
April 27, 2011
Organic produce has increased in major supermarkets in recently years. Food companies can label their foods as “natural”, “cage-free”, or “hormone-free”, but that does not mean that the product is organic. Organics often cost more than non-organics. In general organics cost half more than non-organic foods because of higher production costs, more crop losses and smaller crop yields as well. As the cost of food continues to rise, many people find themselves needing to choose more carefully what they will buy. Buying organic foods is often the choice that we want to make, yet the higher costs make it seem impossible.
However, with a willingness to make a few simple changes anyone on a tight budget can enjoy organic foods in their kitchen.
People may choose organic foods for reasons related to personal health or to support a better environment. But if you cannot afford organic food or it is not available nearby, you can still gain health benefits from eating conventional fruits and vegetables. Eating (conventionally grown) fruits and vegetables protects against some diseases such as mouth and throat cancers. No studies have shown that the trace amounts of pesticides found on fruit and vegetables are linked with cancer or other diseases. Organic foods and produce may spoil faster as certain chemicals to preserve foods aren’t used.
If you want to find organic foods at lower costs, the first step is to stop shopping at your local grocery stores. Many of the foods found grocery stores, even in the organic sections, have been imported from around the world. This is how they can offer fruits and vegetables out of season all year. The cost of shipping and transporting adds to the cost that customers must pay. Instead, look for local producers who will more likely have a lower price.
Local farmers often sell fruits and vegetables at neighbourhood farmer’s markets or in local food coops. You may even be able to buy fresh foods at the farms themselves, including meats and dairy products. Shopping this way means you will have access to organic foods at a much lower cost, while also supporting your local farmers to continue growing organically.
Buying organic foods in bulk is another great way to stay within your budget. Food is often cheaper when purchased in large quantities rather than individually amounts. Many fruits and vegetables can then be frozen to extend their use time. For those who are willing to learn, home-canning will also preserve foods for extended use. A jar of homemade salsa made from local organic vegetables will cost much less than
buying a jar of commercial organic salsa in the store, other buying tips:
1. Buy fruits and vegetables on days that produce is delivered, so you get the freshest foods.
2. Buy produce based on what is in season at the time. This will save you money and give you peak freshness!
3. Certain conventionally grown produce absorb and hold on to more pesticides than others. These include apples, lettuce, grapes, strawberries and pears. If you consume a lot of these and are worried, organics may be an option.
4.Throw away the outer leaves of vegetables such as cabbage and lettuce. Rinse the rest of the head well. Peel waxed fruits and vegetables. Waxes don’t wash off and can seal in pesticide residues.
| I am a casual writer from Farmersnz.com, which contains a great deal of information about farming and farmers story. Welcome to visit!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Vera_Hansen |
How to Save Money Buying Organic
April 18, 2011
No-one likes to spend any more money than they have to on their grocery shopping. I know I don’t. There’s plenty of other stuff I’d like to keep those hard-earned pennies left over for! We’ve all noticed the growing trend toward organic food. And I’m sure you’ve heard the benefits of eating organic over conventional produce.
But it costs more, right?
Well maybe not.
What if you could actually save money buying organic? While it’s true that pound for pound, you may pay 20-30% more at the checkout for organic, I believe it costs you less in the long run.
Let’s consider the facts;
1. You’ll save money by eating smaller portions. Studies have shown that organic produce gives you a higher nutrient content than it’s conventional equivalent. Nutrients are what fill you up, tell your brain you have enough tools to run the system More nutrients = smaller portions = less money down.
2. You’ll save money on snacks and binges. Remember all those added nutrients? Cravings and binges are a result of poor nutrition. Poor nutrition is a result of not enough nutrients. Organic food will give you lasting satisfaction, lowering the likelihood that you’ll lash out in between meals.
3. You’ll save countless dollars on healthcare. Organic eating is just one element of a healthy lifestyle. It all adds up. I’d rather invest the money toward good health now, live with energy and vitality, and save the money on medical bills down the track. Not to mention the hassle of poor health!
4. You’ll save money on impulse supermarket buys. Sure, you can buy organic at Coles now, but the best produce and variety is found at the markets or specialty stores. Plus, they’re a lot nicer to shop at than a standard supermarket. Shopping at markets encourages healthier and fresher choices – because that’s what’s around. Shopping at the supermarket encourages junk food splurges. That will cost you – and I’m not just talking about money.
5. You’ll save money on supplements, pills and magic powders. When you undertake to eat the freshest organic produce, you’re beginning a journey of sorts. Part of that journey is understanding that the greatest health, body weight and energy comes from avoiding man-made or synthetic (non) foods. This includes protein powders, weight loss miracle pills, and bottles of mixed-bag nutrition in the form of multi-vitamins. These things will cost you literally thousands over time. Replace them with real food – the best quality you can afford.
Think you can’t afford organic?
Think again.
Why not pay for health now, rather than paying the consequences later.
| To learn your individual nutrition needs and take healthy living to the next living, contact me today at info@playlife.com.au for an individualized assessment, starting with a complimentary 15-minute phone consultation.
Life is now. Press play. Kat Eden Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Katrina_Eden |
Beneficial Banana For a Beautiful Body
April 11, 2011
Beauty should not be skin deep only. A beautiful body inside and out shows a good figure and has healthy organs. Bananas can help you achieve that beautiful body.
First of all, it is widely known that bananas have high potassium content. But what is the implication of this? It has great benefits for your bones for it minimizes calcium deficit, thereby also reducing the possibility of developing osteoporosis in the future. Having strong bones can give you good posture, which is important in having a stunning figure. Likewise, dietary fiber can also be provided by bananas, that is why many people who want to lose weight also try to put in a lot of bananas in their regular diet. The fiber allows you to have smoother bowel movements, which is why it is recommended for weight management.
Potassium surely keeps you in good shape. It is also very essential in maintaining a healthy heart and nervous system. According to studies, high potassium intake can lower blood pressure as well as diminish the risk of stroke and kidney stones. Furthermore, bananas are also good for the blood. This fruit assists in preserving proper blood sugar levels through the conversion of carbohydrates into glucose. The body is also sustained in the development of hemoglobin— a vital ingredient in your blood.
To top it all off, bananas also serve as energy boosters. They do not only taste yummy, but they also contain a protein called tryptophan, which is responsible in improving your mood and making you feel happier. Now you know that being more energetic and cheerful can make you radiant and attractive too.
Bananas are certainly beneficial for a beautiful body, revealed in your marvelous stature and form as well as your hale and hearty body organs. And lastly, a smile on your face brings out an inner beauty that reaches out to others.
| Vanessa has written informative articles online for many years. Her passions in life are centered around animals and healthy living. You can check out her latest website here http://evenfloboosterseat.org/ where she recommends her choice for a great car seat. If you’re looking for the right booster car seat for your child, you’ll want to check out this website for her review.
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6 Reasons To Eat Dark, Organic Chocolate
April 5, 2011
Not many of us need a reason to eat chocolate, but here are the six reasons to only eat dark, organic chocolate:
Unless chocolate is organic it contains pesticide residue. Here is what those FDA approved levels of residues do to you:
- Glyphosate — effects on digestive system tissue, genetic damage, effects on reproduction, carcinogenicity
- Hydrogen Cyanide — acute toxicity, thyroid effects, nerve degeneration
- Naled — central nervous system disruption; headaches, nausea and diarrhea
- Pyrethrins — carcinogenicity, reproductive and developmental toxicity, neurotoxicity
- Methyl Bromide — prostate cancer, kidney and liver effects, neurological effects
Dark chocolate has been proven to improve blood pressure.
Dark chocolate can improve glucose metabolism/diabetic control.
Dark chocolate contains high levels of naturally occurring plant flavonoids called polyphenols. These flavonoids are antioxidants.
Another type of polyphenol found in chocolate prevents fat-like substances in our bloodstream from oxidizing and clogging arteries, making blood platelets less sticky to each other.
The fat in chocolate is comprised of heart healthy oleic acid, stearic acid (which neither raises nor lowers cholesterol) and palmitic acid, which raise cholesterol. (only 1/3 of the fat raises cholesterol!)
The above benefits are negated when you eat milk chocolate. The proteins in milk bind antioxidants and make them less available to be absorbed. Also, most light colored chocolates contain large amounts of sugar, which can adversely affect the immune system.
When cocoa is processed into your favorite chocolate products, it goes through several steps to reduce its naturally pungent taste. Flavonoids (polyphenols) provide this pungent taste. The more chocolate is processed (such as fermentation, alkalizing, roasting), the more flavonoids are lost. Remember, those are antioxidants being processed away!
Research done on an isolated island showed inhabitants rarely had high blood pressure, even though they drank about five cups of cocoa each day and incorporated it into many of their recipes. Their cocoa though was not sprayed with pesticides, was not processed and did not have added milk, sugar or soy lecithin as an emulsifier.
That chewy, caramel-marshmallow, nut-covered milk chocolate bar that you feel guilty about has no health benefits and can only add to health problems. If you want to have your chocolate and eat it too, then choose dark, organic chocolate. A square of dark organic chocolate a day just may help keep the doctor away. Now, that’s the best reason of all!
© Page Remick – All Rights reserved
| Page Remick is lead reviewer for Pure Zing, the Internet’s only natural and organic products review site. Remick and the PZ team search for unique and artisanal products that are not mass-produced and found on every grocery store or health food store shelf in the country.
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