Extraordinary Health Magazine EHMagazine Vol 36 | Page 53

WHY CHOOSE ORGANIC?
It makes sense why many consumers are especially tapped
into organic fruits and vegetables, as they comprise a
significant portion of the daily recommended food intake
for optimal health. There are many benefits of going
organic, but some of the top reasons include no risk of
GMOs, toxic chemicals, and a more nutritionally sound as
well as tastier experience.
Unfortunately, genetically modified organisms comprise
over 90 percent of the most common crops in the U.S.
today, according to the Center for Food Safety. Despite
various studies which have linked GMO foods to negative
health effects, there continues to be FDA controversy
regarding the safety of these crops, including many
conventional vegetables and fruits. Choosing organic
helps to eliminate the potential risk of these altered foods.
Further, organic foods are free of highly toxic synthetic
pesticides that are common with conventional produce.
Research has found synthetic pesticides to be associated
with many chronic health conditions, as cited by reports in
the US National Library of Medicine and other sources.
In addition, studies have shown that synthetic fertilizers
can even impact nutritional value and taste. Organic foods
may contain 18 to 69 percent higher concentrations of
antioxidants, as reported by the British Journal of Nutrition.
This is likely since synthetic fertilizers as well as pesticides
inhibit a plant’s production of phytonutrients, such as
antioxidants, according to Organic.org. In turn, organic
produce cultivated without these inhibitors is higher in
antioxidants, which may explain their richer and more
intense flavors, according to the British Journal of Nutrition.
STARTING YOUR OWN ORGANIC
GARDEN
For many people, growing their own produce can be one
of the most rewarding and enriching experiences, as it
allows for total control over one of the major food sources.
It is also very cost-effective, as buying organic can be
very expensive. Growing your own garden also allows for
cultivating crops that may be difficult to attain locally, or
specific varieties unavailable throughout the year. With
mini greenhouses, indoor grow tents and lights, it has
become relatively easy to manage a climate-controlled
garden, if you choose.
After deciding upon an outdoor or indoor garden, evaluate
individual needs and resources. Starting small and
expanding is almost always better than committing to
an unmanageable large scale garden. For smaller spaces,
container or window gardens are a great choice for herbs,
cherry tomatoes, and of course flowers.
Good Housekeeping suggests picking up a few essential
tools, including a trowel set, soil test kit, a compost bin,
garden gloves and a lightweight watering
can. The soil test kit is especially important,
as soil is the foundation for successful
growing. For best results, plan to compost
about two months prior to planting, using
organic materials such as fallen leaves, grass
clippings, and manure.
Some people prefer to start with seeds, while
others prefer to plant crops. Keep in mind
that some foods and flowers are better to
grow from seed, including sunflowers, dill,
sweet peas, squash and cucumbers, says
Good Housekeeping. When going with crops,
group like kinds together to reduce weeding
and water waste. Zucchini and tomatoes are
some good choices for beginners. To avoid
pests, ensure plants remain healthy, with
adequate light, nutrients and moisture.
While some insects can actually be beneficial
to a garden, if needed seek out horticultural
oils, garlic or hot pepper sprays to help repel
excessive pests.
BEST CHOICES FOR SPRING
AND SUMMER PLANTING
Some of the best warm season produce to
grow includes the aforementioned seed
and crop suggestions, as well as snap peas,
corn, cucumbers, peppers, and melons like
honeydew, according to Sunset. Cabbage,
lettuce, spinach and raspberries are also
good spring and summer crops, says
Urban Farmer. For flowers, there are plenty
of beautiful varieties that add color, but
marigolds, black-eyed susans, aster, hibiscus
and zinnias are some great choices for the
warmer seasons.
Extraordinary Health ™ • Vol 36 51