Live longer - Foreign chemicals like pesticides can generate free radicals in the body.  These cause damage to cells, proteins and DNA which allow normal cells to function improperly and die prematurely.  When we maintain a clean internal and external environment, including reducing stress, and exercising, we feel better.  The World Health Organization has found that vegetables produced today have 5-40% less minerals than those produced 50 years ago.  Organic farms are typically smaller and more conscious of soil repletion; therefore the food is higher quality.

Reduce your cancer risk - Pesticides and synthetic fertilizers are known to cause cancer in laboratory animals.  These chemicals taken into our bodies in small amounts each day accumulate in our tissues.  They cause free radical damage and decrease our anti-oxidant stores leaving our cells vulnerable. 

Balance your hormones -Xenobiotics are well known for affecting the endocrine system.  They can have an increasing estrogen effect, which can cause more PMS, painful periods, cause fibroids, cancer.  Some cause a decreasing testosterone effect, which can alter our mood, energy level and sex drive. They also disturb the thyroid hormones which can cause weight changes, appetite changes, disturb sleep, affect hair growth.  Reproductive health is also affected. 

 Healthier nervous system -Living in our stressful go-go-go world, drinking loads of caffeine, sugary soda’s and alcohol, our nervous system is constantly under attack.  According to the National Academy of Science, “neurologic and behavioral effects may result from low-level exposure to pesticides.” Numerous studies show that pesticides can adversely affect the nervous system, increase the risk of cancer, and decrease fertility.  Pesticides, insecticides and synthetic fertilizers are known to affect the nervous system.  They can cause “brain fog” or toxic encephalopathy.  This is a condition which is characterized by lack of mental clarity, difficulty making decisions, getting things done, and forgetfulness.  Xenobiotics can also cause damage to the myelin coating on our nerves, changes to our coordination, numbness and tingling of our hands and feet.

Get more nutrition per bite -Why waste our time eating foods that don’t nourish us? The World Health Organization has found that vegetables produced today have 5-40% less minerals than those produced 50 years ago.  Organic farms are typically smaller and more conscious of soil repletion; therefore the food is higher quality. Now research is showing us how organic food is more nutritious.  When soil is fed organic matter rather than ammonia and other synthetic fertilizers, the food actually contains higher levels of vitamins and minerals, according to the 2005 study by Organic Center State of Science Review.  More recently, University of California, Davis researchers found that organic tomatoes had higher levels of phytochemicals and vitamin C than conventional tomatoes.

Eat food that tastes better -Let the feasting commence!  It makes sense that as beings of nature, pure natural organic foods in our mouth taste better.  Washington State University researchers proved that organic berries were consistently judged as sweeter.  The latest research verifies that organic foods are lower in nitrates and these foods are then higher in antioxidants.  Many gourmet chefs across the nation use organic foods because they believe they taste superior to conventionally grown foods.  

Eat Consciously -Supporting local organic farms does more than keep revenue in your city or town.  It keeps your environment cleaner, less toxic.  Local farm workers stay healthier. Organic farming also uses 30% less energy.  Enjoy your local organic farmers fruits and vegetables and know that your money is helping not only you but also all those who touched the food and live on or near the land on which it was grown.