We’ve all heard about the benefits of eating organic, but it seems like the cost just keeps going up. By now, organic foods are anywhere from 40% to 150% the cost of conventional (non-organic) foods. Is it really worth all that money?
By definition, organic foods exclude the use of chemical pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, and growth hormones in animal feed. There are several standards for organic claims on a food label. A food that is 100% organic must have 100% organic ingredients. A food with the USDA organic seal must have at least 95% organic ingredients. Lastly, a food that states it is “made with organic ingredients” must use at least 70% organic ingredients in the product.
While there have been several claims that eating organic foods can prevent or even cure disease, the bottom line is that no one knows the true differences in nutrients among the products, but it is not likely to be enough to significantly impact health. There are no studies showing that organic foods can cure disease or that they have any impact on the severity and length of disease.
It is also important to note that organic packaged food items are not necessarily healthier than conventional items. For example, organic cookies still contain the same amount of sugar and fat as non-organic cookies, or organic potato chips still contain the same amount of salt and fat as conventional potato chips. So, whether an item states organic or not, we still have to make smart food choices.
Eating smart, as I’ve said before, should involve diet that is filled with variety and packed with lean proteins and lots of fruits and veggies. It also means being smart about the portion sizes you consume – everything is OK in moderation!
Let’s Dish! is a great resource in eating smart. They offer a variety of meals (including chicken, pork, fish, beef and vegetarian options) that have built-in portion control. They use fresh ingredients and offer the option to customize all the meals to fit any dietary restrictions.
Being heart healthy is about eating smart – and Let’s Dish! makes it delicious, too!
Catherine Joiner
Clinical Cardiac Dietitian
