There has been a lot of debate as to whether organic food is better for you than non-organic food. Logic tells us that we have to be better off without all of the chemicals that are associated with modern farming practices, but up until now there has been very little research to support this.
A new £12m study funded by European Union is now being prepared for publication, and the early findings are very promising for advocates of organic food. The study shows that organically produced crops and dairy milk usually contain more beneficial compounds such as vitamins and antioxidants than their non-organic counterparts.
The research has shown up to 40% more beneficial compounds in vegetable crops and up to 90% more in milk. It has also found high levels of minerals such as iron and zinc in organic produce.
Organic produce is typically about 30% more expensive and until now people have been told that buying organic food is fine as a lifestyle choice but that there are no proven health benefits. However, this new research shows that that extra 30% may be a very worthwhile investment.
Another study released recently and conducted by the University of California compared organic tomatoes with those grown 'conventionally'. It was conducted over 10 years and found double the level of flavonoids, a type of antioxidant thought to reduce the risk of heart disease in organic food.
Don't forget though, that just because something is organic, doesn't mean that it is healthy. All of the other rules in regards to having a healthy balanced diet still apply. An organic soft drink may be healthier than a non-organic one, but it is still a soft drink.
Dr Brett Hill's top 5 tips for choosing healthy foods
1. Choose organic wherever possible. Try the Central Market, Stirling Organic Cafe, Wilsons Organics, Organic to Go or the Good Life pizza bars.
2. If you cannot buy organic then use a vegetable wash to wash off as many chemicals as possible. You can make your own using a splash of vinegar and an pinch of salt in a sink full of water.
3. Buy local wherever possible. This means that your produce is in season, healthy and environmentally friendly.
4. Eat a balanced diet that includes lots of vegetables.
5. Drink lots of pure fresh water.
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