In their ongoing debate between organic and conventional foods, this is the one myth that continues to be at the top. Such a belief may well turn people away from organic products, limiting the possible contribution that organics could make for health and well-being.
Let us try to find out on the basis of scientific knowledge if organic food indeed has any clinically important benefit that could justify its higher price.
What Does "Organic" Really Mean?
Understanding what food actually qualifies as "organic" is of fundamental necessity before debunking myths. "Organic food" is referred to as a method in which products from agriculture are grown and processed. No synthetic pesticides, genetically modified organisms (GMOs), and artificial fertilizers or irradiation are not allowed to be applied in the methods used.
On the contrary, organic farming practices bring out absolute emphasis on crop rotation, manure for soil fertility, and management through natural ways of pest control.
Medical Benefits of Organic Foods: Fact or Fiction?
Reduced Exposure to Harmful Chemicals: Several reports have demonstrated that organic food contains fewer or Zero pesticide residues than conventional food. Pesticides are also endocrine disruptors, neurotoxins, and carcinogenic substances.
They account for many health problems, ranging from hormonal imbalances to neurological conditions and even types of cancer. Therefore, the medical benefit is derived in the form of reduction of exposure to these chemicals, more so among the
vulnerable populations: the children and expectant mothers.
Higher Nutrient Levels: In fact, there are findings that show some nutrients, like antioxidants and vitamins, can be higher in organic food. For instance, one study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry showed that conventionally grown berries and corn had 52% more Vitamin C and 58% more antioxidants compared to organically grown samples.
Antioxidants reduce the oxidative stress and inflammation, which increase the body's risks of getting chronic diseases.
Addressing the Scepticism
Scepticism, therefore, arises in part due to the realisation that health benefits resulting from the consumption of organic either are not realised immediately or are not clear as a result of cumulative or overall lifestyle choices that may, in effect, diminish the risks of harmful exposures.
The cumulative effect, in fact, is that it diminishes the risks of harmful exposure and increases the nutritive intake, which is absolutely necessary for long-term health and wellness.
It's almost like saying that you won’t buy Medical or Life Insurance for yourself or your family because you don't see, feel or get an immediate benefit.
Does it make sense?
Conclusion: Making Informed Choices for Long-Term Health
While this debate will continue, the evidence really does lie favourably with the organic foods on health benefits. This is only an investment in one's health and the health of the environment, reducing medical costs in the future and improving quality of life.
This also goes to show that with organic food and organic products gaining more popularity and people becoming more aware of their benefits, one can only hope that in due time, organic foods will be within reach for everybody.
