Article: "20 Foods to Always Buy Organic (Even if you're on a Budget)"

I read this today and thought it was useful information to share with blog readers, especially with all the monsanto news lately. So, taken from Luz Plaza's article, here are the 20 foods that you should always strive to purchase organic and the reasoning behind them.

Grains

Conventional grains are known to contain 15 pesticide residues according to the USDA Pesticide Program. They have even been known to carry carcinogens and neurotoxins that are linked to many health problems. Why buy them organic? Organic whole grains can reduce the risk of chronic diseases, stroke and heart disease.

Soy, Tofu and Edamame

Be aware that 90% of soybeans sold in the United States are genetically modified. Always buy organic to avoid toxins such as chlorpyrifos and malathion. 

Milk

If you drink cow's milk, you are probably already aware that 20% of all cows are given rBGH, the genetically engineered hormone. Organic milk, especially for kids should be a no-brainer.

Cheese

While the FDA regulates the ingredients of processed cheese, there are still problems. For example, processed cheese is made by using heat and an emulsifying agent such as monosodium phosphate, calcium citrate and potassium citrate. Additionally, highly processed cheese likely comes from from a cow that has been treated with synthetic hormones to boost milk production. These particular cheeses can contain dyes and food coloring that has been linked to cancer. 

Meats:

Conventional meats contain hormones, antibiotics and pesticides (from the fertilizer used to grow the feed). Most experts say you should buy organic meat because of the dangers of hormones, antibiotics and additives that have been linked to cancer and other harmful health effects. 

Apples:

On the top of the list of fruits that are full of pesticides. According to Pesticide Action Network's website: www.whatsonmy food.org, 88% of conventionally grown apples contain residues of Thiabendazole, a possible carcinogen. Even after a good wash, traces may still remain. 

Celery:

Conventionally grown celery often tests positive for the carcinogenic insecticide, Chlorantraniliprole and developmental or reproductive toxins. If you can't get organic celery, switch it out for asparagus instead. Conventional asparagus is at the top of the clean produce list, meaning it contains far less of these harmful chemicals. 

Cherries:

This summer favorite is notorious for pesticide and toxin leftovers on their skin. In fact, the USDA Pesticide Data Program found 42 pesticide residues on cherries including carcinogens and neurotoxins that can cause nervous tissue damage. Since cherries are high in fiber, vit c and potassium, just make sure you buy them organic. 

Tomatoes:

This fruit/vegetable is chock full of vit c and lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. However this is one that should always be purchased organic since conventional tomatoes tested positive for many toxic chemicals including Chlorothalonil, a chemical that is considered to be a known carcinogen.

Cucumbers:

Rich in vit A, K and potassium, there are many health benefits to this veggie. However many conventionally grown ones contain 35 pesticide residues like Endosulfan, an insecticide that is so toxic it's gradually being phased out globally. 

Grapes:

Conventionally grown contain Captan and Iprodione, two known carcinogens. Health benefits to grapes include being a good source of calcium, iron and manganese which is essential for healthy tissue production.

Hot Peppers:

This veggie contains a chemical called capsaicin, which can help relieve nasal congestion or even fight against cancer. Unfortunately, conventional ones also can contain 49 pesticide residues including some carcinogens and neurotoxins. If you can't find these organic, switch out with onions, a clean tested vegetable. 

Nectarines:

This fruit contains Lutein, a nutrient used by the body to support healthy eyes and skin. Avoid imported nectarines whenever possible because they can contain Iprodione, a possible carcinogen. 

Peaches:

Conventionally grown contain 62 chemicals that are carcinogens, suspected hormone disruptors, neurotoxins and developmental or reproductive toxins! That's more than most fruits and veggies! Stay away from conventional on this one. Swap out for a cantaloupe if you can't find organic peaches.

Potatoes:

Conventional grown often contain neurotoxin chemicals that can cause mental and emotional changes, vision loss and weakness or numbness in arms and legs. If you can't find organic potatoes, then buy conventional sweet potatoes instead. They are full of antioxidants and are a clean vegetable, free of toxic residue. 

Spinach:

This superfood should always be organic, as the conventionally grown variety has tested for 48 pesticide residues including carcinogens, neurotoxins and developmental or reproductive toxins. 

Strawberries:

Conventional strawberries have been found to contain many types of pesticides including Captain, a probable human carcinogen that causes rats to develop tumors. Fun. 

Sweet Bell Peppers:

While one cup of pepper contains almost 100% of the daily requirements for vit A, and 300% for vit c, the USDA Pesticide Data Program found that the conventionally grown tested positive for nearly 50 pesticides including Methamindophos, a poisonous chemical that in very high does can actually be fatal. 

Collards and Kale:

Conventional Kale contains 49 pesticide residues including 2 dozen possible hormone disruptors, 10 neurotoxins and 7 known or probable carcinogens. Luckily these greens are not much more expensive when purchased organic. 

Summer Squash and Zucchini:

These vegetables, when grown conventionally, still contain traces of the banned pesticide ogranochlorine that is highly toxic to humans and wildlife. Stay organic on this one. 

Original article can be read here: http://www.livestrong.com/slideshow/1004202-20-foods-always-buy-organic-even-youre-budget/?utm_source=articlebottom&utm_medium=1#slide-1