The Health Benefits of Organic Foods

Certified organic food production must adhere to certain standards. These standards include growing without chemical fertilizers or pesticides. The standards apply to vegetables and fruits and also include meats, dairy products and eggs. Originally, organic foods came from family or neighborhood farms. Because of their growing popularity, commercial growers now offer many certified organic foods. Foods grown organically, although more expensive than conventionally grown foods, provide many health benefits.

Cancer-Fighting Antioxidants

The Organic Consumers Association says that use of pesticides and herbicides impedes a plant's production of phenolics and flavonoids. Plants normally produce them as a defense against insects or competing plants. When pesticides are used, the plant does not need the defense. Consequently, it reduces production of the flavonoids. These are potent antioxidants, important for our ability to fight cancer and protect our immune systems.

Less Pesticide

Poisonous pesticides kill insects. Researchers consider low levels of pesticides in bodily tissues acceptable. However, as they build up, in susceptible people they may lessen defenses against stress and disease. They may also contribute to conditions such as asthma and allergies.

Protection for Growing Children

Children are more at risk from toxic effects of pesticides in their environment. Because their bodies and brains are still growing and nervous systems still developing, pesticides and poisons can delay physical development and cause behavioral problems and learning disabilities. The concern was so great that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency passed the Food Quality Protection Act in 1996, requiring all pesticides applied to food must be safe for children.

More Nutrients

The Organic Center conducted a study concluding that an average serving of plant-based organic food contains 25 percent more of many nutrients than a serving of conventionally grown food. Their evidence also suggests that poultry and livestock consuming organically grown foods, produce milk, eggs and meat containing higher levels of protein, omega-3 and some vitamins and minerals.

Better Drinking Water

Pesticides and artificial chemical fertilizers pollute drinking water in much of the country. Run-off chemical fertilizers add to high nitrate levels in water supplies. Organic farming can eliminate much of the pollution in the water.

Increased Freshness

Fresh fruits and vegetables contain the most nutrients. As they age, they lose some nutritional benefits. Local organic farming provides fresher and healthier foods. And fresh foods have more flavor.