Tuesday, September 18, 2007

Organic Produce


Is it worth it to spend the extra money and buy organic produce? Can organic produce be that much healthier? Research says yes.
According to the New York Times, a recent study has shown that organic tomatoes contain a higher level of flavonoids. Due to their antioxidant activity, flavonoids have shown numerous health related benefits. Strong experimental evidence displays their inherent ability to modify the body's reaction to allergens, viruses, and carcinogens. They show anti-allergic, anti-inflammatory , anti-microbial and anti-cancer activity.
Over 4,000 flavonoids have been identified, many of which occur in fruits, vegetables and beverages (tea, coffee, beer, wine and fruit drinks). The contribution of flavonoids to the antioxidant defense system may be substantial considering that the total daily intake of flavonoids can range from 50 to 800 mg. This intake is high compared to the average daily intake of other dietary antioxidants like vitamin C (70 mg), vitamin E (7-10 mg) or carotenoids (2-3 mg).
More on organic produce...

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

YEY. SO glad to know that spending the time and money to eat organic is worth it to increase my nutritional status.