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Is Eating Organic Really Better For Us?

We?ve all noted the increase in the number of organic products that are available to us compared to a few years ago. This market is growing at an amazing pace ? approximately 20% each year ? as more and more people choose natural products over conventional ones. The question is whether we are really doing ourselves (and the environment) a favor by switching to organic diet lifestyles.

Let?s first take a look at the nutritional value of organic versus conventional food. The marketing hype of the organic industry wants us to believe that all natural products are automatically nutritionally superior to their conventional counterparts. Dietary experts suggest, however, that consumers read the labels on all products ? organic or not ? and make their own comparisons and choices. Don?t just assume that a natural product will be better for you. It is also argued that the image of ?clean farming? portrayed the organic food industry is not as clean as it seems. Natural pesticides are still used to keep the food pest-free and these have also been known to be harmful to the environment and even to humans (albeit on a smaller scale than conventional farming). In addition, natural pesticides have the down side of containing harmful bacteria.

The decision to ?go organic? is not an easy one, especially when we read such conflicting reports and studies in the media. Experts say that the most important thing is to make educated choices based on specific product information and what is good for our bodies ? organic or not.