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2006/06/28, 08:25 PM
Like to see the hard evidence behind these claims. If you follow the "studies" promoting healthier benefits from organic, they are normally funded by organic growers.
1: Int J Food Sci Nutr. 2003 Sep;54(5):357-71.
Organic food: nutritious food or food for thought? A review of the evidence.
Magkos F, Arvaniti F, Zampelas A.
Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Harokopio University, Athens, Greece.
Apparently, one of the primary reasons for purchasing organic food is the
perception that it is more nutritious than conventional food. Given the
increasing interest towards organic food products, it is imperative to review
the existing literature concerning the nutritional value of the produce, and to
determine to what extent are consumer expectations met. There are only few
well-controlled studies that are capable of making a valid comparison and,
therefore, compilation of the results is difficult and generalisation of the
conclusions should be made with caution. In spite of these limitations, however,
some differences can be identified. Although there is little evidence that
organic and conventional foods differ in respect to the concentrations of the
various micronutrients (vitamins, minerals and trace elements), there seems to
be a slight trend towards higher ascorbic acid content in organically grown
leafy vegetables and potatoes. There is also a trend towards lower protein
concentration but of higher quality in some organic vegetables and cereal crops.
With respect to the rest of the nutrients and the other food groups, existing
evidence is inadequate to allow for valid conclusions. Finally, animal feeding
experiments indicate that animal health and reproductive performance are
slightly improved when they are organically fed. A similar finding has not yet
been identified in humans. Several important directions can be highlighted for
future research; it seems, however, that despite any differences, a
well-balanced diet can equally improve health regardless of its organic or
conventional origin.
Publication Types:
Review
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Maximus from Gladiator....Strength and Honor!
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2006/07/04, 07:18 AM
although.... according to the UK soil association one in three of all the foods you eat contains traces of pesticides, which can amount to the average person consuming food that has the equivalent of up to a gallon of pesticides sprayed on it.*
The link between pesticides and carcinogenic compounds is already well documented. Also, if the body is using resources to remove harmful manmade chemicals it is less able to fight infections etc, as in many cases the vitamins required to do both jobs are the same.
* Heaton, S.A.A., Organic farming, food quality and human heath: a review of the evidence, Soil Association, Bristol, UK (2001)
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