Fruits and veggies are good for us right? They are until they fall on the dirty dozen list. Each year the EWG (Environmental Working Group) releases a list of the “cleanest” and “dirtiest” produce. This list is designed to let know the most important foods to choose from the “organic” aisle, and the ones you can buy without the organic label. The “dirty” produce contains the highest amount of harmful pesticides and herbicides that can impact the proper function of your GI, Immune and Endocrine systems.
To ensure you have a happy gut, balanced hormones and strong immune, reduce, remove and replace any of the dirty dozen with their healthier- non pesticide covered organic version. You may pay an extra dollar or two yet the benefits for your long term health and wellbeing pay you back over and over again.
The 2019 “Dirty Dozen” include:
Kale, Spinach, Strawberries, Apples, Peaches, Tomatoes, Celery, Grapes, Nectarines, Pears, Cherries, Potatoes.
You can still eat these foods and yes, they are incredibly nutritious yet it is important to choose each of the above “Dirty Dozen” items organic. Your local farmers markets and stores like Aldi or Trader Joes offer great organic produce at very affordable prices.
Next up, what can you eat straight from the produce aisle with confidence? Anything from the clean 15 list. This contains the lowest amount of pesticides and herbicides or has a thick outer skin that protects the produce.
The “Clean 15” this year includes :
Eggplant, Kiwi, Cabbage, Pineapples, Asparagus, Onions, Broccoli, Mushrooms, Sweet Peas, Papaya, Cantaloupe, Avocado, Sweet Corn, Cauliflower, Honeydew Melon.
You can find these at your local farmers market and in season at your local grocery store.
Pesticide use is a real threat to our endocrine system and hormonal health. It’s always a smart choice to reduce your exposure whenever you can by choosing organic food. The farmers use natural pesticides like bugs that keep other bugs off of the plants, just the way nature intended.
For ideas and inspiration on delicious meals you can make and enjoy with your fresh produce, visit our recipe center so you can nourish your body and thrive!
Here is to You, Living Your Life Optimized!
xx- Dr. MGP
