Guess what? You don’t have to eat everything organic to be healthy. Yes, I know what everyone says and no, I’m not a doctor, but I have done my research.
What I’ve learned makes sense to both my body, and wallet! The truth is, some fruits and vegetables are on the clean list! Yup, no excessive toxins,pesticide residue to worry about.So no more stressing about that.But you have to make a few adjustments:
- Wash and scrub produce under running water (soaking is not adequate); 30 seconds significantly reduces surface residue.
- Peel skin whenever possible.
- Discard the outer leaves of leafy vegetables.
- Canned fruits and vegetables typically have lower pesticide residue; the canning process removes most toxins.
I would love to serve my family everything organic but we aren’t quite there yet. One day we’ll get there as long as we continue to follow our new food rules. Here, I’ll share a few with you.( Now remember, there is 8 of us in the house and 10 when everyone’s home- not even counting guest, that we always have.) 
- Buy in bulk if you can use the food or store it without spoilage.
- Clip coupons from the newspaper or online sites.
- Plan your menus using advertised specials from your grocery.
- Compare prices between fresh and frozen, dried and canned varieties of organic foods. They may be less expensive than fresh, yet equally delicious when prepared correctly.
- Shop grocery chains that feature their own organic brand.
- Buy the generic organic version in your favorite market.
- Join an organic food cooperative (you can often find listings online or in your local health food store).
- Plant a garden and grow your own organic produce, or join a community garden.
- Choose less processed versions of conventional foods whenever possible.
- Eat more vegetarian meals. Organic meat can be expensive, and raising animals for meat generally takes more natural resources than growing produce.
Buying produce in season and foods that have been locally grown, are other ways to eat healthfully.
Last but not least: Know that whether you choose locally grown foods, organic foods, or conventional foods from your grocery story, experts agree that the health benefits of a diet rich in fruits and vegetables far outweighs the potential risks from pesticide exposure.
So grab a sweet potato & go!
~~QC Supermom
QC Supermom 