Last week we looked at the things you can do to transition to a zero-waste lifestyle and we mentioned that one of the most important things you can do is to fully understand the extent of the problem our planet faces- so that you can truly understand and commit to what needs to be done to protect it. This philosophy stands true for many improvements that we strive to do throughout life. Its simply not enough to know we should be doing something- we need also know why. So, seeing as we all know that buying organic is generally recommended as the best ways to go, this week we're looking at the reasons why choosing organic is best for your family. Here are just three little reasons to consider- do let us know in the comments if you have any to add.
Knowing what organic means
Before we get into the reasons why choosing organic is best for you and your family, it's important to know exactly what organic is. According to The Soil Association:"Organic is a system of farming and food production that aims to produce sufficient quantities of high quality food, using methods that deliver a breadth of benefits across our whole food system, from people to planet, plant health to animal welfare."This means that fewer pesticides are used (those that are allowed are very strictly controlled- organic farmers instead use natural pesticides and focus on maintaining a balance between plants and animals to prevent pests), no artificial fertilisers and higher animal welfare standards. The result of all of this is a healthier planet and a healthier you. Read on to find out our top three reasons why you should be choosing organic...
Organic products are better for your health
Eating a diet filled with organic produce means that you're fuelling your body with clean and unprocessed foods that have been grown
without chemicals and other nasties. This means that you're consuming fewer pesticides, fewer additives and preservatives, fewer antibiotics, and no genetically modified ingredients. So you're steering clear from hydrogenated fats (trans fats), artificial food colourings, sweeteners, and preservatives, and you're escaping food that has been washed in chlorine!
With the above in mind, it's easy to see the physical health benefits of choosing organic foods to eat. This, in turn, leads to better emotional wellbeing, since physical health is so directly linked to mental health. When we feed our body properly, we allow our minds to also flourish and therefore encourage a more holistic approach to health overall. Connecting the mind, body, and spirit by choosing to consume more natural foods is one of the best ways that you can support your family's health.
Choosing organic helps to support the planet
It's also worth noting that the organic food you're eating is also helping to sustain greener methods of farming too. The Soil Association notes that:"In the face of changing weather patterns on a warming planet, organic farms are more resilient to the effects of climate change; soils on organic farms store up to twice as much water, helping to protect against flooding, and performing better during drought."In addition, organic farms are specially designed to ensure sustainability with fewer emissions overall, thus keeping their carbon footprints low. Organic farmers have turned their backs on harsh pesticides and fertilisers - choosing instead to cultivate healthy soil nourished with compost and manure. Choosing to use fewer pesticides and fertilisers means that there are fewer greenhouse gases produced- so when you choose organic you are choosing to support a farming system that is striving to protect our planet. Its a no-brainer, really!
Organic products support your eco-conscious ethics
If you're reading this then we'll take an educated guess and presume that you are eco-conscious and that you strive to live a green life in general. Therefore we will also presume that your ethics tie in very nicely with the ethics of organic farmers and producers. This applies to
both food and other products, such as toiletries and cosmetics.
Organic products mean that there is no animal testing, no GM, no parabens, no synthetic colours or fragrances, and no controversial chemicals. It also means that the products you're choosing have higher levels of antioxidants, contain sustainably sourced ingredients, support fair and transparent manufacturing processes, contain biodegradable ingredients, and are produced with minimal packaging.
All of the above are important factors to consider when you're striving to reduce your carbon footprint and follow an ethical way of life in general. Choosing organic makes so much sense if you're passionate about protecting the planet, protecting your health, and guiding your family towards a greener lifestyle.