WELLNESS: Organic vs Non-Organic: Where to save money.

I get asked if I buy everything organic, the answer is NO! But let me share why.

I surely pay attention to the quality of the products I buy, especially when it comes to animal proteins but I do not buy everything organic. One main reason is that it would not be budget-friendly and when it comes to fruits and vegetables, buying organic is not always necessary. Let me share some tips on how I save money.

What are the benefits of eating Organic?

There is very little to possibly no differences at all in the macro nutritional value of conventional foods, food that has been grown and processed using artificial methods, and those that are organic. I do know that organic foods contain more antioxidants than conventional foods, organic dairy products contain higher concentrations of nutritional minerals and antioxidants – like iron, vitamin E, selenium, and carotenoids and organic meats have more omega-3 fatty acids, less cholesterol, and more antioxidants; A lower risk of exposure to antibiotics, growth hormones and pesticides.

FRUITS & VEGETABLES

When choosing fruits and vegetables I like to look at the Dirty Dozen and the Clean 15 list created by the non-profit organization Environmental Working Group (EWG).

All the fruits and vegetable in the Dirty Dozen list should always be bought in their organic version. All the fruits and vegetable on the Clean 15 list can be purchased in their conventional version.

If you don't have the choice to purchase the organic version of the fruits and vegetables on the Dirty Dozen list, I recommend that you soak them (I love Traders Joes Vegetable and Fruit Wash or use a apple cider vinegar wash) for 10 minutes, scrub, rinse and remove the skin before eating.

PROTEINS

I recommend going to a trusted source such as your local farmer's market, trusted butcher and fish market to purchase your meats, seafood, meats, and dairy products. If you don't have any of these nearby you can purchase the organic version from your local grocery store.