The positive impacts of antioxidants on health have been well established in many studies. Limiting processed foods and choosing organic options may help you increase your intake of these beneficial nutrients.
Organic foods are free of genetically modified organisms (GMOs), which have had their DNA altered in ways that do not occur naturally, usually to enhance resistance to pesticides or herbicides.
Antioxidants
The body is surrounded by free radicals, which are produced by our own cells as a byproduct of normal processes and by environmental toxins such as cigarette smoke and air pollution. Over time, excess free radicals can cause damage to cells and DNA, leading to diseases including cancer, heart disease, atherosclerosis and age-related macular degeneration. Antioxidants are natural substances that help to neutralize and prevent this cellular damage by scavenging the free radicals. They are found in a wide variety of plant foods, such as berries, vegetables and fruits, and also in herbs and spices (turmeric, oregano, ginger, cloves), nuts, whole grains and some meats, especially red meat and fish.
A recent study found that organic fruits, vegetables and cereals have between 19% and 69% more antioxidant compounds than their conventional counterparts. This is the first study to show clear differences in antioxidant levels between organic and non-organic produce, and it supports previous studies that link high intakes of antioxidants with better health.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a water-soluble antioxidant and a powerful anti-inflammatory that protects against oxidative stress. It can lower your risk of heart disease, ward off eye problems like cataracts and macular degeneration, and promote healthy skin.
It’s also important for the formation of collagen in the body, which helps keep skin smooth and supple. Vitamin C can be found in a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, such as strawberries, green peppers, oranges, bananas, dark leafy vegetables and tomatoes.
A multibillion dollar organic industry is fueled by consumer perception that organic foods are healthier (greater nutritional value and no toxic chemicals). While some studies have shown mixed results, many organic foods do provide higher levels of nutrients such as vitamin C, iron, and magnesium than non-organic food.
Vitamin E
Oxidation in the human body produces unstable molecules known as free radicals that damage cell membranes, lipids and DNA. Antioxidants (such as vitamins C and E, carotenoids, phenolic compounds and flavonoids) safely interact with free radicals, neutralising them before they cause cellular damage.
Vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol and its tocotrienols) is an antioxidant found in many foods including nuts, seeds and whole grains. Its benefits include helping to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, balancing cholesterol levels, supporting immune function, thickening hair, improving vision, reducing PMS symptoms and offering protection against prostate cancer and Alzheimer's disease.
Vitamin E is fat-soluble and its antioxidant properties make it easy for your body to absorb it. It can help to protect against oxidative damage to cells, and may also play a role in regulating blood pressure. It's most effective when obtained from food, rather than in supplement form. A 2015 study found that a high intake of natural vitamin E is associated with lower risk of cardiovascular disease and certain cancers.
Magnesium
Magnesium is an essential mineral that is involved in many of the body's important processes. Some studies have linked a higher intake of magnesium to reduced risk of hypertension and cardiovascular disease. It also helps maintain a healthy heart rhythm and may help prevent diabetes-related complications by helping balance blood sugar levels.
In addition, researchers have found that high-magnesium diets may reduce the symptoms of chronic stress. It's thought that this is because magnesium supports the activity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which is involved in our response to stress.
People with gastrointestinal issues or a sensitive stomach should be cautious about taking magnesium supplements. Some research suggests that very high dosages of magnesium can cause diarrhea, nausea and abdominal cramps. Also, long-term use of magnesium supplements can affect how your body absorbs certain medications, including levothyroxine (for underactive thyroid) and penicillamine, which is used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and Wilson's disease. It's best to get your magnesium from food whenever possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is inorganic?
Organic food is not produced with pesticides or artificial fertilizers. These chemicals could cause health problems for those who eat inorganic food.
Organic food is organically grown without the use of harmful chemicals such as pesticides or herbicides. These chemicals can cause harm to animals and humans.
Inorganic food can include meat, fish eggs, buttermilk cheese, buttermilk, yogurt, honey grains, vegetables, fruits spices, and herbs.
The way that an agricultural product is grown organically is what the term means. Organic farming uses natural methods to grow crops. Conventional farming uses pesticides and synthetic fertilizers.
U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), must ensure that organic food meets strict standards. The National Organic Program Standards state that organic food must be freed from banned substances like antibiotics, growthhormones, genetically altered organisms (GMOs) and industrial solvents. Organic food must also be free from toxic chemicals, petroleum based fertilizers, sewage effluents and ionizing radiation.
What is the difference in organic and non-organic foods?
Organic food does not contain pesticides, chemical fertilisers, sewage waste, irradiation, genetic modification. Organic farming practices contribute to soil health, water purity, and animal welfare.
Inorganic foods may be grown with chemical fertilizers, pesticides, or sewage sludge. Radiation can be used to destroy food, while genetically modified organisms are created by biological engineering.
"Organic" and "natural" are often interchangeable. But, "natural" does not necessarily refer to organic. Products labelled "natural", however, may contain synthetic chemicals.
Organic produce is typically more nutritious than conventional produce because the soil contains fewer harmful chemicals and pesticides. Organic farmers also don't use synthetic fertilizers or hormones, pesticides, or antibiotics.
What are organic fruits?
Organic foods do not use pesticides, artificial fertilizers, hormones or antibiotics. They are also richer in nutrients like vitamins C, E, K, and omega-3 fat acids. Organic food is healthier for the environment and our bodies.
Organic foods are produced with sustainable farming practices that promote soil quality and biological diversity. They are free from harmful chemicals, radiation, and sewage sludge.
Many organic products are not associated with produce. They include dairy and meat, poultry, eggs baked goods, pet food, household cleaning supplies, and personal care products.
The USDA defines organic as crops grown in accordance with strict federal regulations. Farmers cannot use conventional (non-organic) methods to grow these foods. They can use approved natural pest control methods such as crop rotation, cover cropping and organic animal feed.
Additionally, the farmer must adhere to guidelines concerning the amount of fertilizer and pesticide that he uses during the growing seasons and how he rotates his fields among various crops. GMOs, artificial growth hormones, synthetic pesticides and synthetic fertilizers are not allowed in the fields of farmers.
Produces labelled as 100% organic meet all requirements. However, some farms won't claim that their products are 100% organic. This would confuse the consumers. Instead, they will label the product as "made from organic ingredients". "
Statistics
- Once certified by the USDA, it can fall into one of four categories: "100 percent organic", "organic," "made with organic ingredients," or "made with less than 70 percent organic ingredients. (en.wikipedia.org)
- As for organic meat, regulations require that animals be raised in living conditions that accommodate their natural behaviours (like the ability to graze on pasture), fed 100% organic feed and forage, and not administered antibiotics or hormones. (usda.gov)
- When packaged products indicate they are “made with organic [specific ingredient or food group],” they contain at least 70% organically produced ingredients. (usda.gov)
- Popular clothing brands, like Patagonia, are labelled as organic by using 100 percent organic cotton for many of their styles. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
[TAG42]
- Organic food and impact on human health: Assessing the status quo and prospects of research - ScienceDirect
- Technical Note: Simultaneous vitamin and carotenoid analysis of milk from total mixed-ration-fed cows is optimized for xanthophyll detection. ScienceDirect
[TAG45]
[TAG47]
[TAG50]
- EWG's 2022 Guide for Shoppers to Pesticides on Produce
- Clean Fifteen Conventional Produce (tm); With the Least Pesticides
How To
Organic Foods: What You Need to Know
Organic foods are produced from plants and animals that have been grown without the use of pesticides, chemical fertilizers or other additives. They can be produced without the use of genetic engineering or ionizing radiation. No artificial colourings, flavour enhancers, preservatives, or colourings must be used in the food. It should not include genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
The term "organic", as it is commonly known, was first used by Justus von Loig in 1845. He coined the phrase "organisch", which means life-giving, to describe manure's properties. Nowadays, most people associate the term organic with the production of food. In this context, organic means that the product contains only naturally occurring substances such as proteins, carbohydrates, fats, and minerals that occur in nature.
In the past decades, the consumption of organic products has grown dramatically worldwide. According to recent statistics, around 50% of the world's population consumes at least one organic product daily. This figure is on the rise and it is predicted to grow to 70%, 88%, and 90% in 2020.
There are many factors that consumers choose organic produce. Organic products are preferred by many people for their taste and health. Some also prefer organic produce because of the higher quality. Others believe that organic farming is more sustainable. There are ethical concerns regarding farm workers and animals. This is why some people choose organic products.
Organic foods are usually more expensive than conventional ones, although prices vary depending on countries and regions. There are different factors influencing the price of organic food. The availability of suitable land for organic agriculture is one factor. Another is the cost for inputs and labour required to grow organic crops. Transport costs, marketing costs and taxes are also important. The average price of organic food in Europe is 10% less than regular.
Below are the main differences between conventional and organic foods.
- Organic produce is free from synthetic fertilizers, growth regulators, hormones, and antibiotics.
- Organic livestock is fed grasses and grains, rather than corn and soya meal.
- Organic milk is only produced from cows that are fed all-natural hay and pasture grasses.
- All organic raw materials are certified organic.
- Organic fruits or vegetables should not be grown in pesticide- or other harmful chemical environments.
- Organic meat, poultry, and seafood are free from radiation.
- Raw nuts and seeds are soaked before use.
- Organic cooking only uses healthy oils.
- Organic eggs have been laid by hens and given access to outdoor areas.
- Bees use traditional methods to extract organic honey.
- Organic chocolate uses sugar and beans that have been grown and processed organically.
- Organic wines do not contain any chemical additives.
- Tea leaves made from organic plants are grown by hand.
- Organic cotton is grown without any form of pesticide or herbicide.
- Organic flours and cereals do not contain artificial colours or preservatives.
- Shampoos and soaps made from all natural ingredients are free of harsh chemicals.
- All-natural cosmetics have no side effects on the skin.
- All natural cleaning agents are biodegradable.
- All natural products for the body are hypoallergenic, dermatologically tested, and hypoallergenic.
- All-natural personal care products are non-fragranced and safe for babies.
- All-natural baby formula doesn't contain bovine serum or animal rennet.
Resources:
![]() |
[TAG53]Genuinely embracing global flavours, BelovedSaffron.com invites food lovers and passionate chefs to explore a world of spices and herbs, organic food, |
![]() |
[TAG54]Organic food has become increasingly popular in recent years, with many people believing it to be healthier and more environmentally friendly than |
![]() |
[TAG55]At Belovedsaffron.com, we believe that the key to good food and healthy eating is the proper use of spices, herbs, and other fresh ingredients. We.. |
![]() |
[TAG56]At Belovedsaffron.com, we are passionate about spices, herbs, good food and organic eating. Our mission is to bring awareness about the different.. |
![]() |
[TAG57]We understand that food has the power to connect us all, transcending cultures and distances. At Belovedsaffron.com, we are passionate about spices,.. |
![]() |
[TAG58]When it comes to storing fruits, you want to ensure that your organic fruit stays fresh for longer periods of time. That means learning how to store.. |
![]() |
[TAG59]Discover the wonders of global cuisine at Belovedsaffron.com! Our mission is to bring you spices, herbs and organic food from all over the world,.. |
![]() |
[TAG60]At Belovedsaffron.com, we are passionate about spices, herbs, recipes and organic eating. We are on a mission to bring you awareness about flavours.. |
![]() |
[TAG61]Welcome to Belovedsaffron.com, where we are passionate about spices, herbs, recipes and organic eating! Here you will find a wide range of spices,.. |
[TAG62]At Belovedsaffron.com, we're passionate about flavours, cultures and cooking wisdom from around the world. We seek to bring you closer to sustainable |
![]() |
[TAG63]At Belovedsaffron.com, we're passionate about flavours, cultures and cooking wisdom from around the world. We seek to bring you closer to sustainable |
![]() |
[TAG64]At Belovedsaffron.com, we are dedicated to exploring the amazing world of spices and herbs, encouraging sustainable eating practices and sharing.. |
![]() |
[TAG65]At Belovedsaffron.com, we believe that the key to good food and healthy eating is the proper use of spices, herbs, and other fresh ingredients. We.. |
![]() |
[TAG66]At Belovedsaffron.com, we're passionate about flavours, cultures and cooking wisdom from around the world. We seek to bring you closer to sustainable |
![]() |
[TAG67]Nuts are a great way to add flavor and variety to your diet. They also provide protein, healthy fats and fiber to help you stay full. Often used as a |
![]() |
[TAG68]Organic Cultur |
![]() |
[TAG69]Genuinely embracing global flavours, BelovedSaffron.com invites food lovers and passionate chefs to explore a world of spices and herbs, organic food, |
![]() |
[TAG70]In this video we review a recent paper looking at taurine supplementation and its beneficial effects on healthspan and lifespan. Some links are affiliate |
![]() |
[TAG71]Discover the hidden dangers of these top GMO foods! Safeguard your well-being by learning which genetically modified foods to steer clear of for a healthier |
![]() |
[TAG72]Are you wondering what the benefits of eating organic food are? Well, in this video, I will explain why eating organic is a good idea and give you some |
![]() |
[TAG73]We understand that food has the power to connect us all, transcending cultures and distances. At Belovedsaffron.com, we are passionate about spices,.. |
![]() |
[TAG74]When you plant organic gardens with diversity in mind, you create multiple benefits by working with natural systems to generate your own ecosystem. Once the |
![]() |
[TAG75]Welcome to BelovedSaffron.com, where we celebrate all the wonderful flavours of spices and herbs worldwide! We are not just chefs but food.. |
![]() |
[TAG76]Get your Organifi Green Juice at https://organifi.com/jp Use Code "JP" For 20% Off Get your Freedom Merch Here - https://bit.ly/3SqObSZ |
![]() |
[TAG77]At Belovedsaffron.com, we are passionate about spices, herbs, good food and organic eating. Our mission is to bring awareness about the different.. |
![]() |
[TAG78]At Belovedsaffron.com, we are passionate about spices, herbs, recipes and organic eating. We are on a mission to bring you awareness about flavours.. |
![]() |
[TAG79]Discover the wonders of global cuisine at Belovedsaffron.com! Our mission is to bring you spices, herbs and organic food from all over the world,.. |
![]() |
[TAG80]Slurrp farm millet noodles recipe | slurp millet noodles | zero trans fat | Honest Organic Review Use the code FARM20 and avail 20% discount on all their |
![]() |
[TAG81]-My instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joeyprimal/ -Twitter: https://twitter.com/joeyprimal -My website: |
[TAG82]Pioneer vegetable breeder Joseph Lofthouse interviews David the Good about gardening on Florida sand, subtropical food forests, survival gardening, and |
![]() |
[TAG83]In this installment of The Empowering Neurologist we are privileged to welcome Dr. Nathan Bryan, a trailblazer in the realm of biomedical research, with a |
![]() |
[TAG84]Researched articles about eating Organic food |