Organic Food Benefits
Organic foods are the ones that are cultivated without using any synthetic fertilizers or pesticides. These foods are free from artificial colors, preservatives, and sweeteners. These additives interfere with the nutritional value of the food and may cause health problems in the long run.
Advantages of Organic Food
Organic farming does not expose crops to harmful chemicals to increase the yield. It relies on organic fertilizers that prevents depletion of soil. Eating food that is organically grown means superior health and nutrition. Children on an organic diet are less likely to contract dangerous illnesses in the near future. From a health standpoint, including organic food in the diet has the following advantages:
High Nutrition Value: A recent study revealed that organic foods are more nutritious than their counterparts (conventionally grown). There is a significant nutritional difference in both these types of foods. Organically grown foods have a higher nutritional value, and hence are a better option for maintaining overall health. Inorganically grown foods are heavily processed, which in turn reduces their nutritional content. One can definitely say that organic foodstuff are the purest form of food. It is observed that organic food has more vitamin C and minerals than conventionally grown food. So, an easy way to increase nutrient intake would be to have more organic foods in your diet.
Scientists have also studied the impact of antioxidant content of foods. As expected, it was found that the total antioxidant value of organically grown food is significantly more than those produced using inorganic methods (with the help of synthetic chemicals). Therefore, consuming organic foods that are high in antioxidant level can definitely induce a positive change in overall health.
Optimal Health: There is no involvement of artificial fertilizers or harsh chemicals in organic farming. Research revealed that use of pesticides during farming depletes the nutrition level of food, and have been associated with the development of diseases like cancer as well. Inorganic farming also exposes workers directly to these chemicals, which can adversely affect their health. Eating foods that are conventionally grown by spraying pesticides can cause side effects such as stomach cramps, abdominal pain, and unusual weakness. People having organically grown food in their diet have less probability of suffering from food borne diseases.
Tantalizing Taste: Taste any organically grown apple or any other fruit, and one will understand the importance of organic foods. This is obvious as organic farming does not spray pesticides, which are also responsible for killing the taste. However, in case of inorganic foods, occurrence of pesticide residues on the surface of fruits even after washing them, cause them to smell and taste differently. Also, the abuse of chemicals is rampant in inorganic means of farming which can lead to the formation of toxic residues. So, there is a higher chance of ingestion of chemicals by humans.
Environmental Impact: As organic farming does not spray pesticides to cultivate crops, the surrounding environment is not polluted with these chemicals. This practice of cultivating farms can also decrease the quality of soil. Overuse of pesticides can harm beneficial soil life that may trigger soil compaction and lead to unhealthy plants. These chemicals may get washed off during heavy rains and travel to lakes and rivers via sewers, thereby causing harm to aquatic life as well.
Scientists have come up with two equations that demonstrate how soil fertility is linked to the type of farming implemented:
Inorganic Farming: Synthetic Fertilizers + Pesticides = Infertile Soil
Organic Farming: Microbial Activity + Organic Fertilizers = Soil Fertility
These two equations clearly speak about the need for organic farming. Chemical fertilizers, over a period of time, will diminish the soil's ability to provide essential nutrients that help crops and plants to thwart pest attacks.
On the whole, organic farming will produce healthy crops, high in nutrition content, that may assist us to enhance our daily lives. It promotes soil building and support a healthy environment. So, practicing organic agriculture methods seems to be a good solution for us to enjoy better quality of life.
