Art of eating...going the ORGANIC way!!

We all say eat fruits and vegetables, but how often do we ask ourselves if the food we are eating is safe? Do we know if it is free of bacteria, viruses, parasites, chemicals, other contaminates, which can cause over 200 diseases ranging from diarrhoea to cancer? Are we aware that the food we consume can contain pesticides and chemicals, making it harmful for human health?

Most of us have an accumulated build-up of pesticide exposure in our bodies due to numerous years of exposure. This chemical "body burden" as it is medically known could lead to health issues such as headaches, birth defects, and added strain on weakened immune systems.

Some studies have indicated that the use of pesticides even at low doses can increase the risk of certain cancers, such as leukemia, lymphoma, brain tumors, breast cancer and prostate cancer.

Why organic?
“Organic” is fast becoming the buzzword for enlightened Indians who are concerned about healthy living. In fact, eating organic and eating right is now becoming a growing need The primary benefits of eating organic are lower level of pesticides. However, despite popular belief, organic farms do use pesticides. The difference is that they only use naturally-derived pesticides, rather than the synthetic pesticides used on conventional commercial farms.

Organic food refers to food items that are prepared according to the norms set by an organic certifying body. Thus, organic food production does not involve the use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides, or preservatives that make it last longer. Furthermore, organic food is often sold locally, resulting in availability of fresh produce in the market, which usually does taste better than produce that has been frozen, shipped, and transported across long distances. Apart from directly influencing human health, organic farming also ensures a sustainable environment as organic farming reduces pollution, conserves water, reduces soil erosion, increases soil fertility, and uses less energy.

In terms of nutrition too, organic food is better. ‘Organic food really has more nutrients, vitamins and mineral, including vitamin C, iron, and magnesium and phosphorous than conventional produced food. This is because in organic farming, great emphasis is on nourishing the soil which in turn gives healthy plants. Healthy plants give produce that is packed full of all the vitamins and minerals which give flavour and goodness to our food. The time allowed for the crops to grow by not using chemical fertilizers is the final key elements making it possible for organic crops to have much higher nutrition levels.

In the wake of alarms over poor diet, junk food and rising obesity levels, the acceptance of organic food provides a welcome relief. Going organic and consuming pesticide free food will eventually lead to a better health for us and for our families. In fact, for children, pregnant mothers and such vulnerable individuals it seems that organic food is an ideal choice. It is healthy, nutritious and not having chemicals makes the food safe and non-toxic. Growing organic food is however an involved and committed process. It demands an attitude towards sustainability.

An organic diet is not just about nutrition, it is the Art of Eating – it reflects our attitude to life and to the world, because good food sustains life-bad food kills. For healthy growth, we need pure food. Organic food is safe, pure, more nutritious, environment friendly, protects against diseases and maintains peace of mind. A pure diet fosters purity of mind, body and soul.

…and Safe for the Environment
Organic Farming adopts eco-friendly methods as the crops are cultivated using chemical-free green manures. Even the organically reared animals that produce milk, meat and eggs are fed with 100 percent natural food and maintained in a complete natural ambience. This helps maintain ecological balance and doesn’t pollute the environment. There are times when one must look at the wider picture. And when it comes to food, organic is the healthier way out as the benefits far outweigh the extra amount you spend on them. So, lead a healthy living and give your health a boost and while you’re at it earn some good deed points from Mother Earth too!

By:N Balasubramanyan
(The writer is a CEO, Sresta Natural Bio Products)