Pesticides and Your Health

Pesticides are associated with a number of serious health issues. Two resources to find out more: Pesticide Action Network North America (PANNA) and study published in Environmental Health Perspectives.

One of the worst pesticides: Atrazine
Used on: Corn, sugarcane, and grain crops.
What it is: Banned in France, Germany, Switzerland, Denmark, Norway.. it is the second most widely used pesticide in the United States. Exposure can cause cardiovascular damage, muscle spasm, adrenal gland damage, and eye or skin irritation. It is a possible endocrine disruptor and carcinogen.

Suggestion: try to avoid conventionally grown foods listed above that were likely to have had this pesticide used. Or, if you're feeling really energetic, google PANNA and find out how you can become involved in social action.

Apples for All Occassions

I LOVE apples! My favorite doctor used to remind me "an apple a day keeps the doctor away." Now is such a great time to enjoy them fresh. My favorite for snacking on is Honeycrisp. They are usually available in very limited supply, but if you find them, try one! Unlike most conventionally grown apples available in regular grocery stores, these taste great! My favorite for cooking is Braeburn. They keep well and make a great snack if they don't last until baking time.

Here's a guide to apples and their best uses. As always, try to find organic and if you can't, wash them in a bowl of water mixed with a few drops of grapefruit seed extract.

For eating: Braeburn, Cortland, Crispin, Gala, Fuji, Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, Pink Lady
For baking: Braeburn, Calville Blanc, Fuji, Empire, Granny Smith, Rome Beauty, Suncrisp

Be well!

Here is a wonderful article about what soda does to your body, why you should avoid it and how it compromises your immune system.

http://health.yahoo.com/experts/drmao/20270/what-soft-drinks-are-doing-to-your-body/
Read it and be well!